Executive Director, New Mexico Horse Rescue

The Executive Director shall plan, implement, and manage strategies to promote the organization’s vision, mission and values while ensuring the organization’s sustainability and growth. This includes leading the attainment of long and short-term goals and objectives set in conjunction with the Board of Directors and building an effective team by providing guidance, support and coaching to managers and their staff members. The Executive Director shall oversee all Ranch and Thrift Store operations while supporting fundraising, donor retention and financial operations. This position serves as the primary representative of the organization for accrediting and regulatory bodies; is a key representative alongside other staff for foundations, grantors, donors, adopters, and the horse community; and is the predominant liaison between staff and the board. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

Responsibilities

Administrative Operations

• Develop, update, and implement organizational policies and procedures in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
• Create business plans to support the sustainability and growth of the organization’s mission and programs.
• Acquire strong understanding of the organization’s financial positions; plan and monitor annual budget.
• In conjunction with Board Treasurer and third-party contractors, ensure all reporting requirements and deadlines are met.
• Oversee development of grant proposals and maintain positive relationships with key grantors and funders in conjunction with the Director of Development.
• Collaborate with staff to address maintenance and equipment repair/acquisition/improvement needs.
• Oversee major projects and expenditures.
• Manage staff with delegation to direct reports as appropriate.
  • Hire and onboard new employees.
  • Provide guidance and coaching as needed to direct and indirect reports.
  • Create and update employee job descriptions.
  • Offboard outgoing employees.
  • Direct reports include the Ranch Foreman, Director of Development, Thrift Store Manager, and Administrative Assistant.
• Oversee volunteer programs.
• Manage any identified staff, volunteer, or general issues, conflicts, or complaints.
• Oversee compliance requirements (e.g., annual business license renewal, conditional use permit changes).
• Attend Board meetings; compile reports for board meetings.
• Manage Ranch equine boarding program.

Equine Welfare

• With input from Ranch Foreman, work with all NM registered equine rescues to coordinate equine rescues through New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) bid postings and surrender requests.
• Ensure reporting of new intakes and other herd data to NMLB and other entities such as ASPCA and Equus Foundation.
• Collaborate with other organizations on legislative horse issues and statutes to further welfare of horses in NM.
• Network with other equine welfare organizations to create opportunities for collaboration, growth, and mutual learning.

Public/Media Relations

• Advance the organization’s brand identity, solicit potential volunteers and adopters, broaden overall awareness, and increase general visibility of the organization.
• Support Director of Development in increasing donor engagement and retention.
• Oversee WNCR communication outlets including print and publications.
• Actively engage, cultivate, and manage press relationships.
• Create and execute an annual event plan.

Thrift Store

• Work with the Thrift Store Manager to execute store policies and priorities.
• Support the hiring, onboarding, and development of store staff and volunteers.
• Assist Thrift Store Manager with building or landlord issues and any major changes to store infrastructure.

Job Conditions

• Primarily an office setting but some duties may include exposure to the elements including extreme outdoor temperatures (wind, mud, snow, dirt, and dust).

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent field experience with at least six years employment in a relevant field (e.g., nonprofit management, business); advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated management experience within a nonprofit organization and collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Knowledge of corporate governance principles and managerial best practices.
• Understanding of corporate finance and measures of performance.
• Marketing, public relations, and fundraising experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills including public speaking.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with Point-of-Sale systems and Donor Management software.