Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services – Auburn Valley

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –

Auburn Valley Humane Society

Location: Auburn, WA (Regular travel to Tacoma, WA required)
 

Reports to: Board of Directors

About Auburn Valley Humane Society

Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) is dedicated to providing compassionate care, shelter, and advocacy for animals in need. AVHS operates a Shelter in Auburn, WA and a Spay/Neuter Clinic in Tacoma, WA, as well as a Cat Café and Thrift Store. Through its programs and services, AVHS works to create a humane and responsible environment for pets and people alike.

Position Overview

AVHS is seeking a hands-on Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Operations and Animal Services to provide strong leadership and operational oversight for the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic. Working directly with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development and reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for stabilizing, optimizing, and improving these core programs following a period of organizational transition.

This position requires regular travel between the Auburn Shelter and the Tacoma Spay/Neuter Clinic, ensuring consistent leadership, staff support, and operational efficiency across both locations. Additionally, the CEO may serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development as needed, stepping in to support executive-level responsibilities.

The ideal candidate is a proven leader in animal welfare, veterinary services, or nonprofit management who thrives in culture transformation, operational efficiency, and team development. A Licensed Veterinary Professional is preferred but not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Culture Transformation
  • Establish and maintain a motivated, well-trained, and reliable team in the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
  • Lead a culture shift that fosters collaboration, accountability, and mission alignment.
  • Mentor and develop Shelter and Clinic Managers, ensuring strong leadership at every level.
  • Provide stability and direction to staff and volunteers during a period of organizational transition.
  • Serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, handling key leadership responsibilities and decision-making.
• Operational & Financial Oversight
  • Analyze and optimize Shelter and Clinic performance to meet financial and operational goals.
  • Develop and implement strategies to maximize clinic revenue and efficiency while ensuring high-quality animal care.
  • Ensure safe, effective, and compassionate daily operations in both the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
  • Prepare and present regular operational reports to the Board of Directors.
• Strategic Growth & Community Engagement
  • Build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including veterinary partners, donors, and the broader community.
  • Support fundraising and grant-writing efforts to secure resources for continued growth.
  • Work closely with volunteer coordination to enhance volunteer engagement in the Shelter and Clinic.

Scope of Role

The CEO of Operations and Animal Services will, in conjunction with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development, oversee only the daily operations of the Spay/Neuter Clinic (Tacoma) and the Shelter (Auburn). The Cat Café and Thrift Store operate independently and are not under the operations CEO’s management.

Travel & Executive Support Requirements

• This role requires regular travel between Auburn (Shelter) and Tacoma (Spay/Neuter Clinic) to provide on-site leadership, staff support, and operational oversight.
• The CEO must be willing and able to step in as CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, ensuring continuity in leadership.
• Reliable transportation is required.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated leadership experience in animal welfare, veterinary services, nonprofit management, or related fields.
• Strong change management and crisis leadership skills, with the ability to stabilize and strengthen an evolving organization.
• Experience in budget management, operations analysis, and performance optimization.
• Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for animal welfare and deep commitment to AVHS’s mission.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Licensed Veterinary Professional preferred but not required.

Why Join AVHS?

This is a unique opportunity to lead an organization through a critical phase of transformation and renewal. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for animal welfare and the ability to create lasting positive change, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their leadership experience and vision for the role to Alexis Singletary, Board Chairperson, Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Auburn Valley Humane Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

EEO Policy Statement:

It is the policy of AVHS/NWSNC to afford equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, age, physical or mental disability, citizen status, veteran status, gender identity or expression, bankruptcy status or any other characteristic or status that is protected by federal, state or local law.

Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) and all parts of its organization, including Northwest Spay & Neuter Center and the Thrift Store, is committed to an inclusive work environment that is full of opportunity for all, with a workforce that reflects the region’s diversity. At the core of it all, our approach is shaped by a strong respect for people. AVHS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, status as an individual with a disability, genetics, status as a protected veteran, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. AVHS uses E-Verify to verify the ability of all new employees to legally work in the United States. If you need assistance or an accommodation in the application process, please contact us.

Pay Range: $120,000 - $130,000 per year