Animal Resources Director - Alachua County, Florida

Alachua County, FL (pop. 282,000) is seeking an experienced professional to lead its Animal Resources Department in the development and administration of a new shelter and expanded programming.  The Director will address a varied and progressive program responsive to a wide range of community services for animal protection.   The successful candidate will demonstrate a high level dedication to quality programs and caring professional services. 

The Animal Resources Director is appointed by the County Manager and confirmed by the Board of County Commissioners.  The Director reports to the Assistant County Manager - Chief of Staff.

Alachua County is located in north-central Florida.  The county population is 263,450 and covers over 960 square miles.  The region serves as a hub for employment and commercial activities.  Beyond the County seat of Gainesville, there are historic villages, agricultural areas and abundant natural areas.  As home to the University of Florida, Alachua County enjoys an established relationship with one of the most highly regarded veterinary programs in the nation.  Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy rivers, lakes, and natural springs, trails for hiking and biking, and recreation facilities for all ages. 

Animal Resources Department

The Department has a budget of nearly $4.2M and 42 full-time equivalent positions.  In partnership with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the department’s Animal Enforcement division is expected to transfer to the Sheriff’s office in the Spring of 2026.  The Animal Resources Director oversees Outreach, Shelter Management, Veterinary Care, and Administration.  The Department philosophy that embraces lifesaving programs and policies to maintain a 90% live release rate, protect public safety and enhance the County’s quality of life.  In 2026, the Director will work closely with the design and construction team to develop a new state-of-the-art animal shelter.

 Essential Functions

• Build an organization culture aligned with County core values
• Provide professional management, expertise, and fiscal oversight for department operations
• Plan, organize and direct with work of Shelter staff; determine work procedures and schedules, assign duties, review and evaluate work products and outcomes.
• Supervise and develop staff, set expectations, evaluate performance, take appropriate action as warranted; provide for training and employee development.
• Determine need for employee corrective action or disciplinary action and initiate as appropriate.
• Evaluate programs for alignment with local goals and priorities and coordination needs
• Implement departmental policies and procedures and make recommendations to the County Manager, Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and County Commission regarding for ordinances and policies impacting the community at large
• Develop department resources and build strong working relationships with the Sheriff’s Office, local partners, including other government agencies, rescue groups and the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
• Work with adoption, rescue and animal care groups to ensure humane handling and care of animals
• Develop protocols for animal services under emergency conditions. Serve as an essential emergency worker during County emergencies. 
• Ensures optimal staffing, including volunteer services
• Provide routine operational updates to the County Manager; present reports to the County Commission as directed; provide public and partner presentations as an advocate for department services and programs
• Develop and administer the department website as a community resource for information
• Develop scope of services for contracts, negotiate terms and oversee contract performance
• Collect data regarding department operations and outcomes for analysis and interpretation
• Prepare the department budget and manage resources to meet goals for responsible stewardship and maximum benefits to shelter animals and the community.
• Prepare regular reports on operations, outcomes, capital projects and expenditures
• Oversee preparation of grant applications and manage grant supported programs
• Deliver presentations to a wide range of audiences; handle questions and inquiries
• Ensure department and staff certifications are achieved and maintained
• Serve as agency liaison to the Sheriff’s Office, local governments, volunteers, community resources, and the public
• Performs related duties as required or as logical to the position

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in animal welfare, veterinary science, animal science, business administration, public administration or closely related field.
• Five years of high level management or executive experience overseeing an animal care program, veterinary clinic or program, or animal shelter.
• Minimum three years experience as a supervisor or
• Combination of training, education and experience equivalent to the employment standards listed above and that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

Valid Florida Driver License and Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy regarding moving violations, at fault accidents and conviction/pending DUI charge. 

Compensation

Salary of $140,000 annually.  Comprehensive benefit package including Florida Retirement System or the optional FRS Investment Plan; elective deferred compensation and ROTH IRA plans are available; health insurance, life insurance, wellness center and services; generous leave allowances.   

Relocation expenses up to $2000

Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with resume, cover letter and contact information for five professional references by January 30, 2026. Address to Jim Dinneen, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter. Questions may be directed to Jim Dinneen at (386) 846-2612.

*Veterans Preference awarded in accordance with Florida State Statute 295.07.

The State of Florida has strong public record laws. Candidates are advised to be aware that all aspects of this recruitment are open to public records requests throughout the process.