Executive Director, Helping Hounds Dog Rescue

Executive Director
Helping Hounds Dog Rescue
North Syracuse, NY
$85,000 - $120,000

Executive Director – Job Posting 

  • Organization: Helping Hounds Dog Rescue (HHDR) 

  • Location: 7268 Caswell Street, North Syracuse, NY 13212 

  • FLSA Status: Exempt 

  • Job Type: Full-Time 

About Helping Hounds Dog Rescue 

Helping Hounds Dog Rescue (HHDR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a compassionate approach to dog rescue by matching homeless dogs from overcrowded shelter systems with loving homes. We are committed to animal welfare, community engagement, and operational excellence. 

Position Summary 

The Executive Director serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Helping Hounds Dog Rescue (HHDR) and is responsible for advancing the mission, strengthening donor engagement, and ensuring strategic and financial excellence. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director leads with a strong emphasis on the responsibilities below. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Financial Oversight 

  • Develop and manage annual budget with strong financial controls. 

  • Oversee all accounting, receivables, and financial reporting, including donor records. 

  • Ensure adequate resources by developing and tracking specific financial goals for each program and revenue source. 

2. Fundraising & Donor Engagement 

  • In conjunction with the Board of Directors and Fund Development Committee, develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy including major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, and campaigns. 

  • Cultivate donor relationships, ensure timely acknowledgments, and create meaningful stewardship opportunities. 

  • Work with the Fund Development Committee to expand sustainable funding sources. 

3. Strategic Planning & Leadership 

  • Lead development and execution of long-term strategic plans, in collaboration with the Board of Directors, aligned with mission and growth goals. 

  • Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, preparing reports and updates. 

  • Define aligned measurable objectives and monitor progress. 

  • Stay informed on animal welfare trends and best practices. 

4. Human Resources & Staff Development 

  • Lead all HR and compliance functions, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and effective work environment. 

  • Conduct annual performance reviews and jointly set annual goals with staff. 

  • Meet periodically with each staff member one-on-one. 

  • Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development for all staff. 

5. Operations & Program Management 

  • Oversee rescue operations to ensure high standards of animal care and adoption services. 

  • Ensure other programs like Training, Boarding, and Grooming are supported, monitored, and measured for success 

  • Support staff and volunteers through coaching, training, and healthy communication. 

  • Develop and document techniques, policies, and procedures to ensure business processes are efficient, effective, and sustainable. 

  • Ensure regulatory compliance and maintain accurate organizational records. 

  • Monitor and measure animal rescue population dynamics, ensure herd health, maintain adoption driven capacity, keep average length of stay low. 

  • Manage and administer a high level of customer service and follow-up. 

  • Resolve customer complaints and conflicts. 

  • Work closely with other organizations to transfer animals to Helping Hounds and share information, collaborating when appropriate. 

6. Public Relations & Community Engagement 

  • Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, strengthening public visibility. 

  • Build relationships with media, partners, and community organizations to promote the mission. 

  • Oversee consistent communication across digital and print platforms. 

Qualifications 

  • Proven experience in nonprofit leadership at the executive level. 

  • At least 5 years experience working in an animal rescue/shelter 

  • Strong financial acumen and budget management skills. 

  • Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and public speaking abilities. 

  • Experience in fundraising, donor relations, and strategic partnerships. 

  • Knowledge of nonprofit governance, compliance, and 501(c)(3) regulations. 

  • Passion for the mission of Helping Hounds Dog Rescue – to provide a compassionate approach to dog rescue by matching homeless dogs from overcrowded shelter systems with loving homes. 

Compensation & Benefits 

  • Salary Range: $85K – $120K per year (Actual salary will be based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity.) 

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance 

  • Paid time off and holidays 

  • Retirement plan options 

  • Professional development opportunities  

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement  

Helping Hounds Dog Rescue is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, New York State, or local laws. 

Additional Information 

  • Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check in accordance with applicable laws. 

  • HHDR complies with all applicable labor, wage transparency, and employment laws. 

  • Reasonable accommodations are available upon request throughout the hiring process. 

To Apply: 

  • Send your resume, cover letter, AND SALARY REQUIREMENTS to board@hhdrny.com.