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Job Description
The Sevier County Humane Society, in Sevierville, TN, is searching for a passionate animal lover and experienced nonprofit administrator to fill the role of Executive Director. Founded in 1972, the Sevier County Humane Society has served the animals and people of Sevier County for more than five decades. As an independent, nonprofit animal welfare organization, the Society has worked tirelessly to reduce animal suffering and homelessness through adoption services, affordable spay/neuter programs, humane education, and community outreach. Supported by dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners, the organization has become a trusted advocate for animal welfare and a vital resource for pet owners throughout the region. Today, the Sevier County Humane Society continues its mission of promoting compassion, responsible pet ownership, and lifelong homes for animals in need. The Executive Director will report to the Board of Directors and will be responsible for the daily operations of the Society including those outlined below. The ideal candidate is a hands-on servant leader who is equally comfortable working with shelter staff, meeting with donors, presenting to community groups, reviewing financial reports, and making difficult animal welfare decisions. Strategic and Organizational Leadership The Executive Director is authorized to manage the day-to-day affairs of SCHS within the limits of Board-approved policies and budgets. The ED may delegate responsibilities to staff but retains accountability for organizational performance. Overall, the Executive Director is expected to: Implement the strategic plan and priorities established by the Board. Execute policies adopted by the Board and recommend revisions as needed. Provide monthly reports to the Board regarding finances, operations, program performance, risks, and opportunities. Advise the Board on matters affecting the organization's mission, sustainability, and effectiveness. Foster a culture of accountability, compassion, professionalism, transparency, and continuous improvement. Shelter Operations The ED is responsible for daily operations of the shelter and all related facilities and grounds, including: Animal care and welfare. Facility maintenance, repair, safety, and cleanliness. Grounds maintenance and appearance. Inventory management for food, medications, vaccinations, medical supplies, and other operational necessities. Coordination and oversight of veterinary services and off-site medical care. Development, implementation, and enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and animal care protocols. Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies. Maintenance of operational and performance metrics approved by the Board. Creation of an emergency and disaster response plan for foreseeable events. Program Oversight The ED has overall responsibility for the planning, implementation, and performance of the organization's four primary programs: Animal Rescue Oversee intake, rescue, transport, and placement activities. Ensure proper evaluation, care, and documentation of animals entering the shelter. Adoption Services Oversee all adoption operations and events. Ensure fair, consistent, and mission-aligned adoption practices. Make final decisions regarding complex adoption suitability matters when necessary. Spay/Neuter Services Oversee program delivery, partnerships, scheduling, and effectiveness. Monitor program outcomes and community impact. Community Education Direct educational and outreach initiatives that promote responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and community engagement. (This program is currently on hold.) Personnel Management The ED has authority over all staff and day-to-day personnel matters, including: Hiring, training, supervision, evaluation, discipline, and termination of employees. Staff scheduling and assignment of responsibilities. Development of personnel policies and procedures for Board approval. Maintenance of a safe, productive, and respectful workplace. Leadership development and succession planning. Financial Management The ED is responsible for the financial stewardship of SCHS, including: Administration of the Board-approved annual budget. Oversight of bookkeeping, payroll, financial reporting, and recordkeeping. Monitoring revenues, expenses, cash flow, and financial performance. Maintaining appropriate internal controls and cash-management protocols. Ensuring timely and accurate financial information is provided to the Board. Working with accountants, auditors, and financial advisors as necessary. Revenue Generation and Development The ED is accountable for the organization's financial sustainability and revenue performance including: Direct responsibility for earned revenue activities. Oversight of fundraising strategy and execution. Hiring, supervising, and evaluating development personnel. Supporting major donor cultivation and stewardship. Overseeing fundraising campaigns, events, grants, and donor engagement activities. Ensuring effective use and management of donor relationship management systems. Marketing, Communications, and Community Relations The ED serves as the primary public representative of SCHS and is responsible for: Maintaining transparent communication with Board, staff, volunteers, donors, and the public. Overseeing website maintenance and digital communications. Ensuring a strong and active social media presence. Representing SCHS at community meetings, public events, and media engagements. Promoting a positive public image of the organization and its mission. Animal Welfare Decision-Making The ED will have ultimate responsibility for ensuring humane, ethical, and mission-consistent animal welfare decisions. Animal placement and adoption suitability. Behavioral and medical concerns. Quality-of-life assessments. Humane end-of-life decisions when warranted.
Qualifications:
Required:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Minimum five years of progressively responsible management experience. Demonstrated experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing organizational operations. Strong financial management and reporting skills. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities. Experience supervising multiple programs and competing priorities. Ability to work collaboratively with a Board of Directors. Commitment to animal welfare and humane treatment. Ability to pass a drug screening test.
Preferred:
Experience in animal sheltering, veterinary services, nonprofit management, or related fields. Knowledge of animal behavior, shelter medicine, and animal welfare best practices. Understanding and mission alignment with Humane Care vs. Municipal Animal Sheltering. Experience in fundraising, donor relations, and grant development. Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) or similar certification or willingness to obtain certification. Experience with nonprofit financial management and donor database systems. Salary Commensurate with