Job Opening: Executive Director
Executive Director
AWS is seeking a strategic, big picture thinker to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and expansion in animal welfare. This highly experienced leader will bring a deep passion for the ethical and humane treatment of animals, along with a proven track record of growth inclusive of transparent, and forward-thinking leadership in complex organizations.
ABOUT US
Founded in 1967, Animal Welfare Society (AWS) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located on 40 acres of forested, riverfront land in beautiful Kennebunk, Maine. AWS serves as the safety net for lost and homeless pets and provides access to affordable services and resources necessary for long term well-being, so pets and their families stay together and thrive. Each year, more than 20,000 pets and community members benefit from AWS programs and services.
AWS’ state-of-the-art, Fear-Free Adoption Center offers secure accommodations for a variety of companion animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and small mammals. It also functions as the impound facility for local municipalities in York County. Additionally, AWS partners with shelters and rescue groups across the state and country to bring adoptable pets to Southern Maine, while also reuniting lost pets with their families.
Beyond adoptions, AWS offers a comprehensive suite of accessible community support services such as temporary pet boarding, pet food and supply assistance, and behavioral training. AWS’ on-site Community Veterinary Clinic serves both resident shelter animals and pets belonging to local community members. Through the Companion Program, income-qualified individuals receive subsidized veterinary care to ensure their pets can remain healthy and at home.
ABOUT YOU
We are seeking a mission-aligned, visionary Executive Director with strong leadership experience and a passion for animal welfare. The ideal candidate will bring:
- A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in business administration or a related field.
- Minimum 8 years of senior or executive leadership experience, preferably within a nonprofit, animal care, or veterinary environment.
- Proven success in fundraising, including donor cultivation, corporate sponsorships, and grant acquisition.
- Strong financial acumen and experience managing organizational budgets and fiscal compliance.
- Ability to lead organizational growth, including facilities expansion or major capital projects.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect effectively with internal teams, volunteers, community members, and external stakeholders.
- Strategic decision-making skills and the ability to respond decisively during emergencies, such as natural disasters requiring animal sheltering.
- Commitment to the values of compassion, collaboration, inclusion, and equity.
POSITION SUMMARY: As the Executive Director, you will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of AWS, responsible for advancing the organization’s mission and long-term strategic vision. You will lead the organization’s administration, programs, fundraising, and community engagement efforts in alignment with the policies set forth by the Board of Directors.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Leadership & Strategy
- Foster a positive, team-oriented culture across the organization.
- Lead strategic planning efforts and oversee implementation of goals and initiatives.
- Inspire and guide senior leadership and staff to meet high standards of service and care.
- Program Oversight
- Ensure all programs—including adoption, community outreach, veterinary care, and temporary assistance—meet the needs of pets and the public.
- Promote adherence to best practices, including those outlined in ASV Guidelines, for animal care and shelter operations.
- Community Engagement & Representation
- Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, foundations, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Represent AWS in local, state, and national forums to raise visibility and influence public policy and awareness.
- Fundraising & Development
- Lead fundraising strategy, including donor relations, sponsorships, and grant writing to ensure financial sustainability.
- Operational Management
- Oversee the development and management of the annual budget and ensure compliance with all regulatory and auditing requirements.
- Ensure workplace safety, training, and ongoing professional development for staff.
- Facility & Compliance
- Ensure AWS remains fully compliant with all local, state, and federal laws, especially regarding animal care and veterinary operations.
- Lead and manage facility expansions or major construction projects while maintaining continuous operations.
TECHNICAL SKILLS:
- Proficient in Microsoft 365, QuickBooks Online (QBO), and payroll systems.
- Familiarity with donor management, animal shelter software, and veterinary clinic operations preferred.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical insurance
- Paid time off and leave
- Matched 401(k) retirement plan
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a detailed cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the role. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
To apply, please send cover letter and resume to apply@animalwelfaresociety.org.
Animal Welfare Society (“AWS”) in Kennebunk, Maine, exists to serve as the safety net for lost and homeless pets and to provide access to affordable services and resources necessary for long term well-being, so pets and their families stay together and thrive.
A recognized leader in progressive animal welfare, the AWS has been keeping pets safe, healthy, and home since 1967. As a trusted 501(c)(3) nonprofit, AWS supports more than 10,000 pets and people each year through a comprehensive array of services. AWS also partners with animal control officers, state agencies, and transport networks to care for vulnerable animals across Maine and beyond.
This is a thrilling moment to join AWS. With a bold vision for the future, AWS is poised to launch a new strategic plan supported by $2M in capital improvements and a $15M campus expansion that will double the size of the veterinary clinic and unlock new mission-aligned business opportunities—such as expanded training programs and potential boarding services. The 40-acre property offers extraordinary potential for reimagining what a modern, community-centered animal welfare campus can be.
AWS is seeking a strategic, big picture thinker to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and expansion in animal welfare. This highly experienced leader will bring a deep passion for the ethical and humane treatment of animals, along with a proven track record of growth inclusive of transparent, and forward-thinking leadership in complex organizations. The ideal candidate will be a confident and approachable servant leader who possesses strong communication skills and demonstrates unwavering integrity. With high emotional intelligence and a collaborative spirit, the Executive Director will foster a culture of growth, empowerment, innovation, and unity across all levels of the organization.
The Executive Director will be a skilled fundraiser and brand ambassador, promoting the mission and values of AWS as the face of the organization while building relationships with community partners, donors, and stakeholders. AWS has consistently played an important role as an advocate for humane policies on the local, state and federal levels. Continuing this leading role in ensuring policies that result in living saving outcomes will continue to be a priority.
Working closely with the Board of Directors, the next Executive Director will be a proven change manager. They will lead with data-driven decision-making, spearhead the evaluation and implementation of modern technologies, and model industry best practices to advance the organization’s operational excellence and animal care standards.
An undergraduate degree from a four-year college or university is desired however demonstrated experience leading an organization will be considered. Leadership experience in a nonprofit organization strongly preferred. CAWA credential is helpful. Prior experience running an animal hospital is desired.
SALARY & BENEFITS: $150,000 – $160,000 plus comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance, paid time off and leave, a matched 401(k) retirement plan and life insurance.
Applications and nominations are being received by Noetic Search. Please click here to submit a current resume and cover letter. For more information, visit www.noeticexsearch.com or www.animalwelfaresociety.org.
Follow Us!
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins
Error: No connected account.
Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to connect an account.