Chief Operating Officer
Job Description: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Classification: Full Time – Exempt
Starting Salary: $100,000 - $120,000
Benefits: Full benefits package
Reports to: Executive Director
Date: February 2025
Richmond Animal League is seeking applications for our first Chief Operating Officer to partner with our Executive Director in leading our growing organization. The COO will manage the organization's day-to-day operations, including facilities, finance, human resources, and marketing, while also leading organizational planning and the long-term vision. Acting as a key thought partner with our ED, you will help foster a positive, professional environment and build an organization that can sustain growth and impact. We are looking for candidates with strong leadership and strategic thinking skills, significant operational experience, and a strong commitment to animal welfare.
This position is based in Richmond, VA, and relocation assistance is available if moving from outside the region.
Richmond Animal League:
For 47 years, RAL has been committed to saving the lives of animals and finding homes for pets. RAL was the area’s first and only nonprofit no-kill shelter. We work with over 60 area shelters and rescue partners to reduce euthanasia across Virginia. RAL provides temporary housing, medical treatment, vaccinations, spay/ neuter, and loving care for pets to help them find new homes.
As we approach our 50 year anniversary, RAL is the strongest it has ever been, with plans for continued growth and impact in our communities. We’re proud of the difference we are making, the talented staff, our ambitious board, and our supportive community. This is a pivotal moment for the organization, with exciting plans for our campus, growth, and impact, and it’s a fantastic place to work.
As the COO, your responsibilities will include:
Overseeing the daily operations of the organization, including HR, Finance, marketing, and facilities
Collaborating with the Executive Director to oversee and build RAL’s program, including the clinic and shelter
Assist in leading organizational planning and long-term vision. In coordination with our ED, developing and implementing a strategic plan designed to accelerate the mission and direction of the RAL’s long-term success, growth, and viability
Establishing and directing operational procedures
Ensuring compliance of RAL with all applicable laws, regulations, licensures, and accreditation standards
Supporting the staff, including employees and volunteers at RAL. This includes periodic performance reviews, safety meetings, cross-training, and salaries
In partnership with human resources, build RAL’s team and oversee staff development, employment, evaluation, and discharge of all employees
Supporting the Executive Director and development team’s fundraising work and stepping in where needed. ● Managing the maintenance facilities, grounds, and equipment
Preparing an annual budget in conjunction with the Board and ED
Supervising and directing RAL’s vendors, contractors, and consultants to assure performance under their agreement
Overseeing the enhancement and maintenance of Standards of Operation for RAL’s activities
Participating in local, regional, and national organizations or committees relating to animal welfare. Representing RAL at the occasional public functions and donor events
Taking on special projects where needed
What we’re looking for in you:
Key qualifications:
You have at least 5 years of experience in operations (including HR and finance) in a nonprofit setting
You have successfully managed multiple departments in a fast-paced environment
You are a strategic thinker who is creative and growth-minded
You are a skilled manager who is strong at team-building
You have experience in the animal welfare sector or animal shelter operations, and are motivated to address the problem of homeless pets
You have experience working with and coordinating multiple tasks using staff and volunteers
You have experience developing standard operating procedures and budgets
You have strong written and verbal communication skills
You can build and maintain a positive, collaborative, and professional setting across the organization
You are a relationship builder and can work with people internal and external to the organization
You can maintain a high level of confidentiality
You have the flexibility to work evening and weekend hours as needed for emergencies and community events
Preferred qualifications:
You have experience in fundraising
You have experience working in a growing organization
Details:
This is a full-time, exempt, salaried position
For candidates considering moving from out of state, relocation assistance is available
Benefits include: health care coverage, dental, eye, SIMPLE IRA match, short term disability, generous PTO, an Employee Assistance Program, flexible scheduling, and professional development opportunities
You will also work on a beautiful campus. Additionally, Richmond, VA blends historic charm with a thriving creative and food scene, offering big-city culture without big-city costs. With easy access to the James River, a strong job market, and a high quality of life, it’s an ideal place to build a career and live
You will report to our Executive Director
There may be light travel requirements for this position
Physical Demands: This position may require long periods of sitting at a desk while using office equipment. Close proximity to animals, their noises, odors, dander, waste, and other impacts are to be expected.
To apply:
Please send your application to Anne Auditore at careers@ral.org. Please be sure to include a cover letter or a statement of interest for the position, and let us know how you heard about the job. We’re excited to hear from you!
At Richmond Animal League (RAL), we believe in equality for all. We are committed to ensuring every employee and applicant has an equal opportunity, regardless of race, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
