Adoptions Director

About ARF Hamptons Since 1974, the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming homeless and abandoned animals. Through the committed efforts of staff and volunteers, tens of thousands of cats and dogs have received compassionate care and found loving homes. Position Overview The Director of Adoptions is a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic direction, daily operations, and overall success of ARF Hamptons' adoption program. This role ensures that adoptable animals are placed into safe, appropriate homes while delivering an exceptional, compassionate experience for the public. The Director of Adoptions leads and evaluates adoption staff and volunteers, oversees adoption policies and procedures, and collaborates closely with the Marketing Director to promote adoptable animals through targeted campaigns and events. This is a highly visible, public‑facing role requiring excellent customer service, confident decision‑making, and the ability to remain calm and professional in emotionally complex situations. This position encompasses all duties of the Adoptions Coordinator, with added responsibility for leadership, strategy, staff performance, and program outcomes.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Adoption Operations & Customer Experience Guide adopters through the adoption process with professionalism, empathy, and transparency Interview and screen potential adopters to ensure appropriate placements Supervise pet introductions and manage complex or sensitive adoption decisions Respond to adoption inquiries by phone, email, and in person Maintain accurate records and ensure completion of all adoption paperwork Conduct post-adoption follow-ups as needed Ensure the safety of animals, staff, volunteers, and the public Animal Marketing & Promotion Develop and implement adoption marketing strategies in partnership with the Marketing Director Oversee the creation, quality, and accuracy of animal profiles and descriptions Photograph adoptable animals with assistance from Adoptions and Marketing staff Monitor animal visibility and proactively advocate for animals requiring additional promotion Ensure animal messaging aligns with ARF's brand, tone, and welfare standards Events & Community Outreach Plan and oversee on-site and off-site adoption events Coordinate staffing, logistics, animal selection, and public engagement strategies Serve as a confident, knowledgeable ARF ambassador at public events Transport animals as needed, including driving ARF's 20-foot adoption van Staff Leadership & Performance Management Supervise, train, and support Adoptions staff and volunteers Conduct formal performance evaluations, provide coaching, and address performance concerns Establish clear expectations, workflows, and accountability within the Adoptions team Foster a respectful, calm, and collaborative workplace culture Qualifications High school diploma required; college degree preferred Minimum three years of experience in animal welfare, adoption services, or customer-facing roles Demonstrated supervisory or managerial experience required Strong knowledge of companion animal behavior and safe handling practices Excellent customer service and public communication skills Proven ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in emotionally charged environments Strong written communication skills for animal descriptions and public-facing materials Experience collaborating cross‑departmentally, particularly with marketing or communications Proficiency with ShelterLuv or similar databases preferred Valid NYS Driver's License required; must be comfortable driving a 20-foot van Commitment to ARF's mission and humane principles Physical Requirements Ability to safely handle dogs and cats Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with or without accommodation Ability to stand, walk, and work on feet for extended periods Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically active shelter environment Benefits for Full-Time Employees Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off Employee assistance program Employee discount Local candidates preferred. The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) is an equal opportunity employer. ARF does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Ability to

Relocate:

East Hampton, NY 11937: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person