Executive Director, Animal Welfare Industry

SAGE Compassion for Animals (SAGEC4A) is a 501c3 non-profit serving the San Francisco Bay Area.  Our Mission is that we provide financial assistance for veterinary care to help companion animals in crisis and educate communities about ways to prevent and reduce illness.  Our Vision is that we believe animals are amazing and that you love them as members of your family.  We envision a world where you have access to the health care and education you need to give them their best lives possible.  The Executive Director will drive the work of the non-profit as directed by the Board of Directors in support of the mission, vision, and values of SAGEC4A. 

ADMINISTRATION OF ALL PROGRAMS: Development of program areas including policies and procedures to attain and distribute funding for animals in need of medical assistance. This may include developing educational programs or material for use in organizational efforts to promote the humane treatment of animals. Other areas include Volunteer Development and Fundraising.

STATUS: The Executive Director position is a full-time salaried position.  The candidate must reside in the San Francisco Bay Area or be willing to move there.

REPORTS TO:  Board of Directors

PROVIDES DIRECTION TO:

• All staff members, including contractors
• Community volunteers

SERVES AS A LIAISON TO:

• Donors
• SAGEC4A Committees
• Veterinary Clinics
• Foundations and potential grant sources
• Other non-profit organizations

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Provide executive level leadership of all management, staff, and volunteers.
• Develop with the Board and put into action strategic plans through implementation of strategic goals and objectives.
• Provide administration of and guidance for all organizational programs and activities and staff/volunteers responsible for them (i.e., program management, fiscal management and fundraising, community and public relations/advocacy, coordination of distribution of funds for animals and maintaining appropriate records regarding costs and outcomes). 
• Report to the organization's board of directors (the "Board") monthly as to the fiscal and operational status of the organization.
• Establish effective working relationships with Board members, managers, staff, volunteers/advisory groups, and vendors.
• Build and maintain relationships with foundations, associations, donors, potential donors, and public officials.
• Develop and document operational protocols for all core functions of the organization.

 FINANCIAL:

• Ensure sufficient annual operating revenue is available and that development evolves to support needed growth.
• Work with the Board and advisory groups as they are formed to develop fundraising activities and capacities of Board members and advisory group members.
• Work with the Treasurer and accounting firm to develop sound financial practices and to manage annual audits.
• Supervise any accountant and/or bookkeeper in the performance of accounts receivable/payable functions.

• Develop and recommend annual budget for Board approval and ensure effective management of the annual budget on an on-going basis.

 FUNDRAISING AND DONOR CULTIVATION:

• Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with donors and prospective donors with support of the Board.
• Stewardship of current donors along with any major gift initiatives.
• Lead grant writing and donor cultivation and solicitation efforts.
• Work with Board members and SAGEC4A Committees to develop, implement, and oversee fundraising projects.
• In conjunction with the Board, develop an annual fundraising plan for long-term sustainability of the organization.

HUMAN RESOURCES:

The Executive Director is a liaison between the Board, staff, and volunteers, effectively managing the human resources of the organization according to authorized personnel and volunteer policies and procedures that fully conform to current laws and regulations.

• The Executive Director will ensure implementation of the following:
• recruitment and orientation
• hiring and termination
• training staff, volunteers, and lead volunteers to efficiently fulfill their roles
• health and safety, workers’ compensation
• development of volunteer schedules and job descriptions

PUBLICITY AND VISIBILITY:

• Provide oversight and direction for all communications representing the organization.
• Maximize public relations opportunities to enhance the image and visibility of SAGEC4A in the community.
• Assure the organization’s mission, programs, and services are consistently presented with a strong, positive image.

ANIMAL WELFARE AND ADVOCACY:

• In conjunction with the Board, establish policies and procedures for pet families applying to receive funds and for the distribution of funds to veterinary clinics for care provided.
• Monitor animal welfare issues and ensure compliance with all applicable law and regulations.
• Network with other local animal welfare organizations and the community to notify the community of this new resource and how to access it.
• Lead the development of a community educational program promoting animal health.

 QUALIFICATIONS:

 Must Have Experience (preferably with a non-profit agency):

• Supervising (for a minimum of 5 years)
• Implementing volunteer/personnel policies including health and safety practices and workers’ compensation
• Developing and writing policies
• Developing and managing an organizational budget
• Fundraising

Required Skills:

• Good communication skills, both orally and in writing
• Success in leading and growing an organization or business
• Ability to organize and motivate staff
• Ability to make decisions with competing priorities
• Initiative to work independently, set and accomplish goals and meet deadlines
• Ability to collaborate with veterinary clinics and non-profit groups
• Fundraising and grant writing experience

Other Considered Qualifications:

• Previous experience in working within the animal welfare non-profit space and knowledge of animal welfare issues, state and federal laws that affect the care, sheltering, treatment and placement of animals including animals in disasters.