Executive Director

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Scion Executive Search has been retained to conduct a dynamic and mission‑driven search for an executive director on behalf of the Darlington County Humane Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the humane care of abandoned and neglected dogs and cats in their area. This full‑time, on‑site opportunity is located in picturesque Hartsville, SC and is available for immediate hire.

The Darlington County Humane Society (DCHS) promotes the humane care of dogs and cats throughout the county. It provides compassionate care for abandoned and neglected animals and works tirelessly to place every shelter pet in a safe, loving home. DCHS advances community education and spay/neuter outreach initiatives that reduce pet overpopulation while engaging volunteers and staff in all aspects of animal care, enrichment, and advocacy.

Following the opening of its new state‑of‑the‑art facility in 2024, DCHS is at an exciting moment of growth and transformation, poised to strengthen financial sustainability, deepen partnerships, and expand lifesaving impact for animals and residents of Darlington County.

The Executive Director (ED) will lead DCHS during a defining period of growth and transformation. Reporting to the Board of Governors, the ED will advance the organization’s mission of promoting humane care while building a sustainable, high‑performing operation that serves animals and the broader community. This hands‑on leadership role requires an empathetic yet decisive executive who balances strategic vision with daily operational excellence.

The ED will oversee shelter operations, financial management, staff development, fundraising, and community engagement while fostering a collaborative, compassionate, and accountable culture.

• Provide transparent, mission‑aligned leadership rooted in collaboration, accountability, and compassion.
• Partner with the Board to execute the strategic plan, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with organizational goals.
• Inspire and empower a diverse team of staff and volunteers while cultivating a collaborative culture rooted in teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement.
• Provide strategic oversight of all shelter operations, ensuring excellence in animal care, adoption, and rescue coordination while maintaining full compliance with welfare standards and regulations.
• Strengthen operational systems, processes, and data tracking to enhance transparency, efficiency, and performance measurement.
• Oversee all financial functions, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and fiscal accountability.
• Develop revenue strategies that balance public funding, grants, fundraising events, and earned income.
• Lead strategic planning and implementation of the new medical clinic opening as a sustainable revenue stream.
• Serve as the public face of DCHS, representing the organization with professionalism and empathy.
• Build strong relationships with donors, community partners, and rescue organizations while leading fundraising and grant initiatives to expand revenue and support new programs.
• Strengthen public engagement through education, outreach, and volunteer programs that elevate awareness and advocacy for animal welfare.
• Maintain a strong, transparent partnership with the Board through regular communication, data‑driven reporting, and strategic collaboration.

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or relevant certification a plus.
• Progressive leadership experience in nonprofit, animal welfare, or mission‑driven organizational management.
• Demonstrated success in leading complex operations, with proven skills in financial management, fundraising, and organizational development.
• Experience overseeing shelter or animal services operations is preferred, along with a deep empathy for both people and animals.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to stabilize and grow organizational revenue; experience managing budgets near or above $1M strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship‑building skills with the…