Chief Operations Officer, Animal Welfare & Shelter

Cleveland APL; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL) seeks an experienced operational leader to serve as its next Vice President of Operations. This senior executive role guides shelter operations, veterinary services, community initiatives, humane law enforcement, facilities, and IT to advance the organization’s mission.

Reporting to the President & CEO, the VP will build strong leaders, drive data-driven improvement, ensure exceptional animal welfare, and strengthen partnerships with staff,

Qualifications

• Senior executive leadership experience in animal welfare or related nonprofit sector preferred.
• Strong strategic planning and organizational development skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, programs, and personnel effectively.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and public speaking abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across shelter operations, veterinary services, community initiatives, humane law enforcement, facilities, and IT.
• Lead organizational change and continuous improvement while upholding high animal welfare standards.
• Develop leaders, strengthen systems and accountability, and use data to guide decisions.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and government officials.

Skills

Executive leadership

Strategic planning

Financial oversight

Data-driven decisions

Change management

Team development

Stakeholder relationships

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

The Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL) seeks an experienced operational leader to serve as its next Vice President of Operations. This senior executive role guides shelter operations, veterinary services, community initiatives, humane law enforcement, facilities, and IT to advance the organization’s mission.

Reporting to the President & CEO, the VP will build strong leaders, drive data-driven improvement, ensure exceptional animal welfare, and strengthen partnerships with staff,