Executive Director

Scion Executive Search has been retained to conduct the search for a dynamic and mission-driven Executive Director on behalf of the Darlington County Humane Society
, a highly valued nonprofit organization dedicated to providing humane and compassionate care for the abandoned and neglected dogs and cats in their area. This full‑time on‑site executive leadership opportunity is based in picturesque Hartsville, SC, and is available for immediate hire.

The Darlington County Humane Society (DCHS) is a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting the humane care of dogs and cats throughout Darlington County. The organization provides compassionate care for abandoned and neglected animals and works tirelessly to place every shelter pet in a safe, loving home through reclaim, adoption, and rescue partnerships. In pursuit of its mission, DCHS advances community education and spay/neuter outreach initiatives that reduce pet overpopulation while engaging volunteers and staff in every aspect of animal care, enrichment, and advocacy.

Following the completion and opening of its new state‑of‑the‑art facility in 2024, DCHS stands at an exciting moment of growth and transformation. Supported by a dedicated team, an active Board of Governors, and a strong base of community advocates, the organization is now poised to strengthen its financial sustainability, deepen partnerships, and expand its lifesaving impact for the animals and residents of Darlington County.

The Executive Director (ED) will lead the Darlington County Humane Society during a defining period of growth and transformation. Reporting to the Board of Governors, the ED will be responsible for advancing the organization’s mission of promoting the humane care of dogs and cats throughout Darlington County while building a sustainable and high‑performing operation that serves both animals and the broader community.

This is a deeply hands‑on leadership role requiring an empathetic yet decisive executive who can balance strategic vision with daily operational excellence. The ED will oversee shelter operations, financial management, staff development, fundraising, and community engagement while fostering a collaborative, compassionate, and accountable organizational culture. The ideal candidate will be a builder. Someone who can stabilize systems, unify teams, strengthen partnerships, and position DCHS as a trusted regional leader in animal welfare and community education.

• Provide transparent, mission‑aligned leadership rooted in collaboration, accountability, and compassion
• Partner with the Board of Governors to execute the strategic plan, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with organizational goals.
• Inspire and empower a diverse team of staff and volunteers while cultivating a collaborative culture rooted in teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement.
• Provide strategic oversight of all shelter operations, ensuring excellence in animal care, adoption, and rescue coordination while maintaining full compliance with welfare standards and regulations.
• Strengthen operational systems, processes, and data tracking to enhance transparency, efficiency, and performance measurement.
• Oversee all financial functions, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and fiscal accountability.
• Develop revenue strategies that balance public funding, grants, fundraising events, and earned income.
• Lead strategic planning and implementation of the new medical clinic opening as a sustainable revenue stream.
• Serve as the public face of DCHS, representing the organization with professionalism and empathy.
• Build strong relationships with donors, community partners, and rescue organizations while leading fundraising and grant initiatives to expand revenue and support new programs.
• Strengthen public engagement through education, outreach, and volunteer programs that elevate awareness and advocacy for animal welfare.
• Maintain a strong, transparent partnership with the Board of Governors through regular communication, data‑driven reporting, and strategic collaboration.

• Bachelor’s degree…