Executive Director

Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation

Job Description

Executive Director – Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation (MAAL)

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief operating officer of MAAL and reports to the Board of Directors. This role leads legislative advocacy, operations, fundraising, public awareness initiatives, and community engagement in alignment with MAAL’s mission. The ED is the organization’s primary representative and must demonstrate leadership, integrity, initiative, and a deep passion for animal welfare.

This role is best suited for a leader who is equally comfortable in policy discussions,
relationship-building, public speaking, and organizational management.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Governance
- Implement Board policies, serve as liaison to the Board, and provide regular updates on operations and strategy
- Support board development and ensure compliance with all laws and regulations
- Strengthen organizational infrastructure by developing and maintaining internal systems, documentation, and processes

Legislative Advocacy and Lobbying
- Lead the identification, tracking, and strategic advancement of animal welfare legislation, including collaboration on bill language, coalition building, and navigation of supporting and opposing stakeholders
- Maintain strong knowledge of legislative processes, policy trends, and political dynamics
- Personally engage in lobbying efforts, including a consistent presence in Jefferson City during legislative session, with ongoing relationship management year-round
- Supervise and coordinate lobbying activities and lobbyists operating in Jefferson City on behalf of MAAL
- Build and maintain relationships with legislators, lobbyists, executive branch officials, and key influence groups
- Monitor and analyze positions of opposing groups to inform strategy and strengthen legislative effectiveness

Fundraising, Public Awareness, and Development
- Lead fundraising strategy and public awareness initiatives, including cultivating new donors and strengthening existing relationships
- Expand MAAL’s visibility and community presence through media opportunities, speaking engagements, partnerships, and outreach efforts
- Diversify fundraising efforts beyond event-based revenue and engage the Board in
development activities
- Oversee donor systems and ensure proper stewardship and data integrity
Grassroots Advocacy
- Expand on and strengthen MAAL’s existing grassroots advocacy network to support
legislative efforts, including coordinating outreach, testimony, and constituent engagement

Operations and Programs
- Oversee all programs and organizational operations, including procedures, reporting, and documentation
- Stay informed on animal welfare trends and recommend new initiatives aligned with the mission

Financial Management
- Develop and manage the budget, monitor expenses, and provide financial reporting to the Board
- Oversee contracts, audits, and insurance in alignment with Board policies
Planning and Personnel Management
- Execute strategic plans and ensure alignment of staff, contractors, and committees with organizational goals
- Manage and supervise the activities of two or more staff members and/or contractors
- Delegate responsibilities effectively based on staff experience, strengths, and
organizational needs
- Set performance expectations, participate in reviews, and ensure accountability
Public Relations and Outreach
- Serve as the public face of MAAL and represent the organization at events, media
appearances, legislative meetings, and public forums
- Build relationships with media, partner organizations, donors, and stakeholders at the local, state, and national level
- Oversee communications and marketing to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance

Legal and Compliance
- Coordinate with legal and accounting professionals, oversee Form 990, and monitor regulatory requirements

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE
- Passion for animal welfare
- Experience in lobbying, public policy, or government relations strongly preferred
- Strong leadership, fundraising, and organizational management skills
- Media, public speaking, and presentation experience preferred
- Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
- Self-starter with the ability to operate independently and proactively

WHY THIS ROLE IS UNIQUE
This is not a traditional Executive Director role. It requires someone who can lead an
organization while actively shaping legislation, advocacy strategy, fundraising growth, public awareness, and grassroots influence to drive meaningful change in animal welfare policy.

Interested candidates should send resume to Stacy Flanagin at: stacy.flanagin@vwa-llc.com