Executive Director of Shelter Operations

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals (FAUNA) seeks a Director of Operations for its Edwina & Sam Friedman Animal Adoption & Welfare Center. The Director is a leadership position that requires strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills, as well as unique knowledge of shelter management; a passion for supporting humane animal treatment and improving animal welfare; and a focus on serving community needs.

This position requires a goal-oriented leader who has solid management skills and understands how to develop and maintain a budget and to use data to make sound decisions. The Director oversees daily operations of the entire center and grounds, and care (both medical and nonmedical) of all the animals.

The Director reports to the FAUNA Board of Directors and directly supervises Center operations and its employees, including Kennel Director and Animal Caretakers. The position supports and abides by the Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals (FAUNA) policies, as established by the Board of Directors and bylaws. The Director works directly with the staff, volunteers, FAUNA Board of Directors, and the FAUNA Advisory Board in furthering the goals of FAUNA and the Edwina & Sam Friedman Animal Adoption & Welfare Center.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Center Operations

• Manages the Center in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures.
• Maintains a clean and safe shelter environment for the benefit of the animals, staff, and visitors.
• Oversees Center records and statistics, reporting, and data management systems.
• Develops and manages Center operating budget.

Staff Management

• Sets standards for and monitors conduct of Center employees to ensure humane treatment of all shelter animals.
• Prepares staff schedules, assignments, and reviews payroll submission.
• Trains or provides scheduled training for all Center employees and volunteers.
• Promotes a culture of safety, transparency, and teamwork.
• Holds performance reviews with employees.
• Hires and terminates Center employees as needed.
• Works with the board and staff to recruit, train, and maintain an active volunteer base

Animal Programs Management

• Develops, and manages, animal care programs and work methods according to best industry practices.
• Ensures appropriate feeding, cleaning, grooming and animal handling programs are implemented.
• Implements programs including intake, adoptions, foster care, and lost and found.
• Answers public animal welfare, cruelty and neglect questions and complaints, and refers to appropriate agencies.
• Assists with health assessments, approves and arranges for appropriate veterinary treatment as needed.
• Serves on the Euthanasia Committee, performs animal euthanasia when required, and oversees the storage of euthanasia drugs and disposal of animal remains.

QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors Degree (or higher) in Animal Sciences, Veterinary Sciences or relevant field, or 5 years experience in animal welfare, non-profit management, or a related field.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License and insurable driving record.
• Strong motivational, management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Competency and comfort using word processing, spreadsheets, online file storage, shelter management software (Shelterluv preferred), and social media platforms.
• Must pass a criminal background check.
• Must be legally eligible under Louisiana Law to obtain Euthanasia Certificate.
• Be able to lift 60 lbs. and be comfortable handling large dogs.

Knowledge of the following is beneficial:
State and local laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances relating to the proper treatment and sheltering of animals; Principles and techniques for properly handling and caring for injured, difficult and/or potentially dangerous animals; Strong knowledge of health care for shelter animals, equivalent to an unregistered Veterinary Technician; The hazards and safety precautions involved in operating an animal shelter.

COMPENSATION:

Starting Salary of $60-70,000 per year. A benefits package including health insurance, sick leave, PTO, and retirement. Relocation Assistance available.