Description

The Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL) is seeking its next CEO to lead a respected, independent humane organization at a moment of stability, strength, and opportunity. The organization plays a critical role in animal welfare and community well-being across Cleveland and Cuyahoga County and is deeply trusted for the quality of its care, the integrity of its humane investigations, and its commitment to keeping pets and families together.

The organization provides far more than traditional sheltering through an integrated model that includes: humane animal care and adoptions, a robust foster network, an engaged volunteer corps, shelter-based and community veterinary services, spay/neuter and Trap-Neuter-Return programs, Project CARE (a comprehensive pet retention safety-net program), humane investigations with full police authority, and legislative advocacy.

The organization has an annual operating budget of approximately $12.5 million, 110 employees, 1,355 active volunteers, and a recently completed $13.5 million facility renovation. The CEO plays a central role in donor relationships and fundraising, and serves as a credible voice for animal welfare advocacy at the local and state level.

The ideal candidate brings a strategic mindset, financial and fundraising savvy, and a people-centered leadership approach, and will find in Cleveland a city that offers genuine quality of life and a strong sense of community.

The next CEO will build on a strong foundation and guide this exceptional organization into its next chapter with clarity, steadiness, and purpose.

View the full position profile here: https://adisagroup.com/capl/

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; advanced degree preferred 

Minimum of five years of executive leadership 

in a comparable animal welfare organization or complex nonprofit, or eight or more years in a senior executive role demonstrating readiness for a CEO position 

Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor engagement, and revenue strategy 

Strong financial and operational acumen, including experience overseeing complex organizations, teams, and budgets 

Experience working effectively with a governing board 

Exceptional communication skills and executive presence 

Commitment to ethical leadership, integrity, and transparency 

Understanding of humane organization principles and best practices; certification through the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA) as a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) certification preferred; shelter experience strongly desired but not required 

Experience with advocacy and oversight of law enforcement or regulatory functions is a plus, particularly in mission-driven or public-facing contexts