Affion Public is a recruiting firm focused on providing executive search services for state and local government, education and non-profit organizations. Affion Public specializes in identifying and placing exceptional executive level candidates within the Public Sector. We have built a successful practice on placing public sector executives and have a reputation for developing excellent working relationships with the clients we serve.
Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV)
Executive Director
Please follow this link to view the full brochure: https://www.affionpublic.com/position/executive-director-ascmv-nm/
About the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV)
The Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV) was established in 2008 through a joint powers agreement between the City of Las Cruces and Doña Ana County, NM. This partnership provides a shared structure for funding, operating, and maintaining the region’s municipal animal shelter and related services.
The ASCMV is overseen by a Board of Directors made up of representatives from both the Las Cruces City Council and the Doña Ana County Commission, as well as appointed public members and ex-officio representatives from city and county leadership. The City of Las Cruces serves as the fiscal agent, while the Executive Director leads day-to-day operations through a team of public employees.
As the only open-admission shelter serving both the City and County, ASCMV handles an exceptionally high volume of animals. However, it remains a progressive, community-focused organization committed to reuniting lost pets with their families and placing adoptable animals into loving homes.
ASCMV Mission
Our mission at the ASCMV is to provide safe shelter for all lost, mistreated, and abandoned animals of the Mesilla Valley and surrounding communities. The ASCMV utilizes all avenues available to it in placing each animal into a safe, loving, and permanent home whenever possible. We strive to meet the highest standards of humane animal care and husbandry, and to promote responsible pet ownership through public education and outreach.
The Position
The Executive Director of the ASCMV provides strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the region’s only open-admission municipal animal shelter. Reporting to the ASCMV Board, the Executive Director is responsible for setting and implementing shelter policies, overseeing staff and resources, and ensuring compliance with City, County, State, and Federal regulations.
This high-impact role leads the development and execution of long- and short-term plans, program goals, and performance metrics that improve animal care outcomes and operational efficiency. The Executive Director serves as the public face of the organization, working closely with community stakeholders, volunteers, elected officials, and partner agencies to promote collaboration, education, and responsible pet ownership across the region.
Duties and Responsibilities
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Education and Experience
Qualified applicants will have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Public Administration, or related field and five (5) years experience managing animal shelter, care, or advocacy programs or operations, including two (2) years supervisory/management experience. A combination of education, experience, and training may be applied in accordance with ASCMV policy.
Licenses/Certification(s):
A valid driver's license is required; this position requires an acceptable driving record in accordance with ASCMV policy.
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate should be a strategic and compassionate leader with deep experience in animal sheltering and a strong understanding of best practices in animal welfare. They should bring a proven ability to manage high-volume operations, develop and implement policies, and build effective partnerships across agencies and communities.
The ideal candidate should be a skilled communicator who can advocate for the ASCMV’s mission while navigating the complexities of local government, public expectations, and limited resources. Experience managing staff, budgets, and regulatory compliance in a municipal or nonprofit environment will be essential.
Above all, the ideal candidate must be a collaborative leader and problem-solver who leads with integrity, fosters a culture of accountability and care, and is committed to continuous improvement in both animal and community outcomes.
Salary
The ASCMV is offering a salary between $117,589 – 172,224, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package. Relocation assistance will be available for the successful out-of-area candidate.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should forward a cover letter and resume to:
resumes@affionpublic.com
Reference: ASCMVED
Affion Public
PO Box 794
Hershey, PA 17033
717-214-4922
www.affionpublic.com
*The deadline to receive resumes is 09/03/25*
The ASCMV is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.