Director of Companion Animal Care

Director of Companion Animal CareHouston SPCA | Houston, TXYou lead with heart, inspire teams through action, and believe every animal deserves the best possible chance.Houston SPCA is seeking a Director of Companion Animal Care who brings compassion, decisiveness, and strong operational leadership to one of the most mission‑critical areas of our organization. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in a fast-paced animal welfare environment, motivates people toward shared goals, and turns data and empathy into life‑changing outcomes for animals and adopters.As Director of Companion Animal Care, you are someone who:Leads by example. You are visible, hands-on, and willing to step in when the work is demanding. Your calm, confident presence sets the tone for your team.Balances compassion with accountability. You care deeply about animals and people, while also holding teams to high standards of performance, safety, and service.Thinks strategically and acts decisively. You constantly look for innovative ways to increase adoptions, reduce length of stay, and ensure resources are used wisely.Motivates and develops others. You coach coordinators, staff, and volunteers to succeed, recognize wins, address challenges promptly, and build pride in shared accomplishments.Values collaboration. You work seamlessly across departments, partner organizations, and with the public to ensure a unified approach to animal care and adoption.Keeps the mission front and center. Every decision you make reflects Houston SPCA’s commitment to excellent animal care, responsible pet ownership, and outstanding customer service.In this role, you will:Direct the daily operations of the Adoptions Center and Animal Care teams, ensuring animals receive consistent, high-quality care.Lead and support Adoption and Hospital Care Coordinators and frontline animal care staff.Oversee adoption programs and special initiatives, both on campus and in the community.Ensure smooth, timely movement of animals from hospital care to adoption spaces.Develop and implement strategies to increase adoptions and reduce returns.Manage budgets, monitor expenses, and prepare clear, accurate reports for leadership.Resolve customer concerns with empathy, professionalism, and efficiency.Ensure cleaning, medical, admission, and operational protocols are followed through quality control checks.Track and analyze adoption data, creating daily, weekly, and monthly reports.Represent Houston SPCA professionally in all interactions with staff, volunteers, adopters, and the public.You will be successful in this role if you bring:At least five years of relevant experience in animal care, shelter operations, or a related field.A minimum of two years of supervisory or management experience.Strong knowledge of animal handling, behavior, breeds, and common medical conditions.The ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure and in emotionally charged situations.Excellent communication skills with diverse audiences.Comfort working flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and occasional long shifts.The physical ability to perform shelter-related duties, including lifting up to 50 lbs.Why Houston SPCA:At Houston SPCA, you’ll join a mission-driven organization that values collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement. We are committed to creating a workplace where diverse perspectives are respected and where leaders are empowered to make a meaningful impact for animals and the community.If you are a leader who believes animal care is both a science and a calling—and who inspires others to bring their best every day—we invite you to apply.