Executive Director
Reporting to the Board of Directors, San Andreas, CA.
About PAWS
The Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is one of the nation’s most respected wildlife sanctuary and animal advocacy organizations. Founded in 1984, PAWS is dedicated to rescuing and providing sanctuary for abused, abandoned, and retired captive wildlife, and to educating the public on captive wildlife issues.
PAWS manages ARK 2000, a 2,300‑acre sanctuary in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, where elephants, big cats, bears, and other rescued wildlife receive lifelong care. The organization does not breed, buy, sell, or trade animals, and it offers naturalistic habitats and science‑based care at the highest standards.
PAWS has a $4–$5 million annual operating budget, 35 staff members and consultants, and it hosts the International Captive Wildlife Conference every two years to bring together global experts on wildlife in entertainment, zoos, and the exotic pet trade.
Job Overview
The Executive Director (ED) will serve as PAWS’ chief executive and strategic leader, advancing the organization’s mission, overseeing sanctuary operations, ensuring financial sustainability, leading fundraising, guiding advocacy initiatives, and partnering closely with the Board of Directors. The ED will champion PAWS’ vision for ending captive wildlife exploitation while maintaining the organization’s reputation as a world‑class sanctuary and influential voice in animal welfare policy.
Responsibilities
- Advance PAWS’ mission and strategic priorities.
- Oversee all sanctuary operations and animal care.
- Ensure financial sustainability through budget management and revenue generation.
- Lead fundraising efforts and donor cultivation.
- Guide advocacy initiatives and policy engagement.
- Partner closely with the Board of Directors and provide effective governance support.
- Build, mentor, and inspire a high‑performing team.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated nonprofit leadership experience.
- Success in fundraising and donor cultivation.
- Financial management expertise.
- Experience working with engaged boards.
- Proven ability to build, mentor, and inspire high‑performing teams.
Compensation
Salary range $150,000–$170,000 plus a benefits package.
Location
The position is based in Calaveras County, CA.
Application
Applicants should submit a current resume and letter of introduction to Kittleman & Associates, LLC by August 7, 2026. For best consideration, submit early.
For additional information about PAWS, visit
To apply, visit
EEO Statement
PAWS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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