Interim Director Position Available In Unicoi, Tennessee

Interim Director 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 185 North Industrial Drive, Erwin, TN 37650

Interim Animal Shelter Director Location:

Erwin, Tennessee Job Type:

Full-Time, Interim (with potential for permanent placement)

Application Deadline:

June 27, 2025 About the Role We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Interim Animal Shelter Director to lead our shelter through a critical transition and recovery period following damage from Hurricane Helene. This is a unique leadership opportunity to rebuild an essential community service from the ground up—physically and operationally. The ideal candidate will be skilled in shelter operations, animal control oversight, community outreach, and organizational change management. You will guide our team through temporary shelter operations, initiate new programs, and help restore community trust after past disruptions. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Strategic Oversight Direct all aspects of animal shelter operations during the facility’s transition, including temporary shelter management and disaster recovery coordination. Serve as the key point of contact between the shelter and the local Animal Welfare Board to implement organizational reforms and develop consistent operational standards. Community Engagement & Public Communication Act as the public face of the shelter; develop and execute a communication strategy to rebuild trust and improve transparency with the public, local stakeholders, and volunteers. Represent the shelter in community meetings, media inquiries, and outreach events, ensuring consistent messaging and visibility. Respond to community concerns and inquiries in a professional, empathetic, and timely manner. Partnership & Relationship Building Reestablish and maintain positive working relationships with local government agencies, law enforcement, emergency services, and municipal leadership. Collaborate with state and national animal welfare organizations for support, guidance, and access to resources. Develop inter-agency agreements or partnerships to expand training, capacity, and services for animal control and shelter operations. Fundraising & Grant Management Identify, pursue, and manage grant opportunities from local, state, and national organizations. Plan and execute fundraising campaigns and donor engagement strategies to support operational needs, rebuilding costs, and future sustainability. Maintain proper documentation, reporting, and compliance for all awarded grants and donations. Policy & Program Development Overhaul the current animal control program, focusing on humane enforcement, community education, and effective collaboration with local authorities. Develop and implement updated policies and procedures for shelter staff, volunteers, and animal control officers. Design and launch a structured volunteer program, including recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training. Budget Oversight Manage the shelter’s interim and operating budgets with fiscal responsibility and transparency. Monitor expenditures, allocate resources effectively, and work with city/county finance departments on reporting and forecasting. Working Environment & Required Capabilities Must be capable of working in both office and shelter environments, including a temporary facility while the main shelter is under reconstruction. Role requires frequent on-site presence, including occasional evening and weekend work to support operations or attend public meetings/events. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform basic animal handling tasks when needed (though this is not the primary function of the role). Must possess a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for local travel and interagency meetings. Comfortable working in high-stress, emotionally charged environments while maintaining professionalism and clear decision-making. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email communication, Quick Books and grant writing tools/platforms is required.

To Apply:

Submit a resume and cover letter with three professional references to ucas.employment@gmail.com by June 27, 2025. Qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews. For questions contact the Unicoi County Animal Shelter at 423-863-6372. Unicoi County Animal Shelter is an equal opportunity employer. Join our team and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and people in your community.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$15,000.00 – $25,000.00 per year

Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift

Work Location:

In person