Executive Director

Who We Are

Established in 2006 by dedicated veterinarians and compassionate community members, the Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) is committed to improving the lives of companion animals through life-saving veterinary care, essential resources, and educational initiatives. With a core team of four staff members, a devoted network of long-term volunteers, and three impactful programs, FACE strives to eliminate economic euthanasia. FACE is consistently recognized as one of San Diego’s leading animal welfare organizations for nearly two decades.

Save a Life Program

In partnership with veterinary hospitals across San Diego County, FACE has awarded over $11 million in grants to save the lives of 4,850 pets. Participating hospitals generously provide a 25% discount on FACE-supported cases, amplifying the reach and impact of our funding.

Community Outreach Program

Since 2016, FACE has collaborated with 11 nonprofit organizations to support more than 5,000 pet owners—many of whom are experiencing homelessness—by providing access to veterinary care and essential supplies.

Humane Education Program

Our educational initiatives foster empathy and awareness by emphasizing the human-animal bond through interactive, hands-on learning experiences designed to inspire and inform.

Leadership and Culture

FACE is guided by a dedicated and engaged Board of Directors, many of whom have supported the organization for nearly two decades. Among them is co-founder Cini Gannon-Robb, a passionate animal welfare advocate who plays a vital role in the foundation’s day-to-day operations and strategic direction.

The Executive Director will be instrumental in cultivating and advancing FACE’s positive organizational culture. This leader will foster an inclusive and empowering work environment, and ensure that every team member is positioned to thrive. By integrating the depth of our programs with proven best practices, sound fiscal stewardship, and a focus on measurable impact, the Executive Director will help drive FACE’s mission forward with purpose and integrity.

Position Summary

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to lead one of San Diego’s most respected animal welfare organizations as it enters its 20th year of service. The Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) is a beloved local charity with a strong reputation and a passionate community of supporter

Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be responsible for guiding the strategic direction and operational success of the organization. This includes managing a $2 million annual budget, strengthening programmatic impact, and cultivating innovative partnerships. The Executive Director will serve as a visible and influential leader in the community, working closely with the Board and it’s President, while overseeing three direct reports: the Director of Development, Director of Operations, and [third role to be defined].

While FACE’s impact to date is significant, the organization holds tremendous untapped potential. We are seeking a visionary and passionate animal advocate who can elevate our reach and effectiveness—particularly through dynamic fundraising leadership and a comprehensive development strategy.

The Executive Director will play a central role in expanding FACE’s capacity by spearheading fundraising events, cultivating donor relationships, and stewarding a results-driven development program. Fundraising will be the top priority, serving as the engine that powers our mission and amplifies our impact across the community.

Duties and Responsibilities

    Engage and inspire a diverse range of stakeholders to support FACE’s mission and amplify its impact across the community.

    Support effective board governance practices, including board development, recruitment, onboarding, oversight, and ongoing engagement.

    Lead fund development efforts, actively participating in donor cultivation, stewardship, and the execution of successful fundraising initiatives.

    Serve as a visible public advocate for FACE, building strategic relationships and partnerships to advance philanthropic support and organizational visibility.

    Provide inspirational leadership and foster team growth, ensuring programmatic excellence and operational efficiency across all activities.

    Exercise prudent financial oversight, managing resources with transparency and accountability in alignment with FACE’s mission.

    Guide strategic planning and organizational development, regularly evaluating program effectiveness and financial performance.

    Ensure adherence to ethical standards, operational accountability, and legal compliance, maintaining public trust and organizational integrity.

Qualifications

    Proven success in fundraising and donor stewardship, with a strong track record of diversifying funding sources, including individual giving, events, grants, contracts, and strategic partnerships. Experience with Salesforce is a plus.

    Extensive senior leadership expertise in strategic planning, board engagement, change management, team collaboration, and talent development.

    Demonstrated success in driving organizational growth, leveraging data-informed strategies to implement innovative programs and expand impact.

    Strong fiscal management, including budget development, oversight, and financial accountability.

    Track record of building effective partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, community organizations, and individual supporters.

    Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to listen deeply, connect authentically, and inspire stakeholders.

     Highly empathetic and diplomatic, demonstrating sound judgment, tact, and professionalism in all internal and external interactions.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, 401K

PTO: 2 weeks vacation – 8 sick days – 8 holiday days

Annual Compensation

$110,000 - $120,000

Office Location (this is an in-person, in-office role)

10505 Sorrento Valley Road, Suite 175, San Diego, CA 92121

www.face4pets.org

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume to:

Tanya Polzer

tpolzer@spearheadllc.com