Executive Director
Humane Society of Jefferson County WA
Job Description
Pay: $90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per yearJob description:
About HSJCWA
The Humane Society of Jefferson County, Washington (HSJCWA) is a nonprofit, open-admission animal shelter dedicated to improving the lives of companion animals and the people who care for them. Through adoptions, low-cost spay and neuter services, licensing, behavior support, and community education, we work to create a future where every companion animal receives compassionate care and appropriate housing.
Our Mission
To improve the lives of companion animals and people through community engagement, education, responsible pet ownership, and high-quality animal welfare services.
Our Values
Compassion, Inclusivity, Collaboration, Teamwork, Education, Stewardship, Transparency.
Position Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of HSJCWA and is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, financial sustainability, and operational management of the organization. The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, donors, community partners, and government agencies to advance the organization's mission of protecting animals, promoting humane treatment, and strengthening the human-animal bond.
The Executive Director ensures the organization operates efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations while fostering a culture of compassion, accountability, and excellence.
This position reports to the Board of Directors and is based on-site at the shelter in Port Townsend, WA.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Organizational Leadership
Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction aligned with the organization's mission and goals.
Develop and implement strategic plans approved by the Board of Directors.
Foster a positive organizational culture that reflects our values.
Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the organization.
Board Relations
Partner with the Board of Directors to establish strategic priorities and organizational policies.
Keep the Board informed regarding organizational performance, opportunities, and challenges in a timely manner through agreed-upon channels and documentation.
Support board development, recruitment, and engagement activities.
Attend and participate in Board and committee meetings.
Financial Management
Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets.
Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
Monitor financial performance and provide regular reports to the Board.
Oversee financial controls, audits, and regulatory compliance.
Identify and implement opportunities for revenue growth and long-term sustainability.
Fundraising and Development
Lead fundraising efforts including major gifts, grants, sponsorships, planned giving, and special events with the support of external consultants and the Board Fundraising Committee.
Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community stakeholders.
Work with staff and volunteers to execute development strategies and campaigns.
Serve as a visible and active representative in fundraising initiatives.
Operations Management
Oversee daily operations including animal sheltering, adoptions, foster programs, veterinary services, humane education, and community outreach programs.
Ensure high standards of animal care, welfare, and safety.
Monitor organizational effectiveness and implement continuous improvements.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Human Resources and Volunteer Management
Directly manage the Shelter Manager and Veterinarian and advise and lead the rest of the team. Provide routine performance management, professional development, feedback, and other relevant management skills to prioritize performance, engagement, retention, and recognition.
Promote professional development and employee engagement.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace environment.
Implement and enforce policies, procedures, cultural initiatives, and employee handbook measures.
Support volunteer recruitment, training, and recognition programs.
Community Relations and Advocacy
Build and maintain partnerships with local governments, animal welfare organizations, veterinary professionals, businesses, and community groups.
Represent the organization at public events, meetings, and media engagements.
Promote public awareness of animal welfare issues and humane education initiatives.
Advocate for policies and programs that support animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
Qualifications:
Required Experience
Bachelor's degree in Business or Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, Animal Science, or related field.
Five plus years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, animal welfare, or a related sector.
Experience in animal shelter management or animal welfare organizations.
Knowledge of nonprofit governance and animal welfare regulations.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and grant development.
Experience managing budgets, financial reporting, and organizational operations.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and community partners.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
Demonstrated passion for animal welfare and humane care.
Compassionate, respectful, and nonjudgmental approach when working with diverse populations.
Commitment to responsible pet ownership, enrichment, and successful adoption outcomes.
Interest in continued learning related to animal behavior, handling, training, and welfare.
Core Competencies
Strategic Leadership
Financial Stewardship
Fundraising and Resource Development
Team Building and Staff Development
Community Engagement
Public Relations and Advocacy
Change Management
Ethical Decision-Making
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
Animal Welfare Compliance Acumen
Flexibility & Resilience
Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in fast-paced or emotionally challenging situations.
Willingness to perform a variety of duties in support of shelter operations.
Availability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and special events as needed.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
This position requires:
Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting.
Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Regular exposure to cleaning products, animal dander, noise, and outdoor weather conditions.
Direct interaction with dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and behavioral histories.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced shelter environment while maintaining high standards of care and customer service.
Benefits:
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
This is a full time job
Contact Information
Job Contact Details
Closing Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Posting Date:
Closing Date:
