Vice President of Shelter Operations

Vice President of Shelter Operations

Houston SPCA | Houston, TX

Full-Time | Exempt | Executive Leadership

Lead lifesaving work. Build strong teams. Make lasting impact.

Houston SPCA is looking for a senior leader to serve as
Vice President of Shelter Operations
. This role oversees daily shelter operations while advancing long-term strategy, animal welfare standards, and community impact. This position is ideal for an experienced, values-driven executive who leads with clarity, compassion, and accountability.

• Oversee all shelter services including animal care, veterinary services, cruelty investigations, wildlife, and equine and farm animal programs
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare laws and industry standards, including ASV guidelines
• Respond to operational challenges and emergencies with confidence and care
• Make difficult decisions with integrity, safety, and animal welfare as top priorities

• Work closely with the President & CEO and executive team
• Turn organizational goals into clear plans, policies, and results
• Improve and expand programs using best practices and data

• Develop and manage multi‑million‑dollar budgets
• Track financial performance and control costs responsibly
• Evaluate vendors and identify funding or revenue opportunities

• Hire, coach, and develop senior leaders and managers
• Create a respectful, inclusive, and mission‑focused culture
• Lead change and continuous improvement across departments

• Set clear performance goals and track outcomes
• Share regular reports with executive leadership and the Board
• Build accountability while supporting collaboration

You are a leader who:

• Communicates clearly and calmly under pressure
• Uses data and judgment to make informed decisions
• Builds trust with staff, partners, and the community
• Leads people with fairness, confidence, and empathy
• Is deeply committed to animal welfare and public service

• Bachelor’s degree required;
  Master’s preferred
• At least 5 years of senior management experience
• Experience managing large teams and complex operations
• Budget and financial management experience
• Knowledge of animal shelter operations and standards of care
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Passion for mission‑driven work

• Medical insurance (company pays 50%–100% of employee premiums based on tenure)
• Dental and vision insurance
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
• Optional AFLAC supplemental plans
• 403(b) retirement plan
  with company match

• Houston SPCA is a qualifying
  nonprofit employer
  , making employees
  eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)for federal student loans

• 18 days of PTO in your first year, increasing with service
• Separate illness leave accrued monthly with no cap
• Employee Assistance Program (mental health, legal, financial, and family support)
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities

• Pet adoption and fostering opportunities
• Discounted veterinary services through our Wellness Clinic
• Pet food and veterinary service discounts

If you want to lead meaningful work, support dedicated teams, and help shape the future of animal welfare in Houston, we’d love to hear from you.

Houston SPCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.