Director, Program Operations

Director, Program Operations
American Humane Society (AHS) is seeking an experienced director to provide strategic operational leadership for AHS’s No Animals Were Harmed Certification Program. The role is hybrid based at the LA office and reports directly to the Vice President of the program.

For nearly 150 years, AHS has led the way in protecting animals and strengthening the bonds between animals and people. Through its certification in Hollywood and farm and conservation welfare standards, AHS sets the highest level of care and compassion in animal protection.

Working at AHS means being part of something bigger. With offices in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Palm Beach, AHS provides a supportive, professional environment where your work makes a real difference in animals’ lives. AHS encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Position Summary
The Director, Program Operations provides strategic operational leadership for AHS’s No Animals Were Harmed Certification Program. Reporting to the Vice President, the role oversees day‑to‑day program operations, including scheduling, financial and administrative functions, and stakeholder engagement. This position supports the credibility, consistency, and global reach of the certification by aligning operational excellence with the highest standards of animal safety and welfare.

Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Strategy

Partner with the VP and senior leadership to support the program’s vision, management, and growth.

Oversee daily program operations, ensuring effective production monitoring and program administration.

Contribute to the development, refinement, and consistent application of internal systems, technologies, and policies.

Identify opportunities for operational improvement, innovation, and support the program’s global growth needs.

Operational, Financial & Administrative Oversight

Oversee scheduling, pre‑production, marketing coordination, IT systems, legal contracts, and reporting.

Lead budget development, financial management, and reporting with the accounting team.

Assist with grant management and audit support.

Develop and maintain systems for data collection, reporting, quality assurance, and compliance tracking.

Implement process improvements to streamline workflows and enhance program effectiveness.

Track, analyze, and leverage program data to inform continuous improvement.

Collaborate with leaders to translate operational insights into actionable enhancements.

Ensure operational readiness in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.

Staff Leadership & People Management

Supervise, coach, and support program staff across functional areas in hybrid and remote settings.

Develop a high‑performing team and foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and operational excellence.

Collaborate with Human Resources on staff planning, performance matters, and training.

Stakeholder Engagement & External Relations

Build and maintain relationships with production companies, studios, unions, guilds, animal trainers, and other partners.

Represent AHS and the program at industry meetings, events, and panels.

Partner with Communications, Marketing, and Legal teams to support external communications.

Address compliance concerns and stakeholder issues with professionalism and fairness.

Certification Compliance & Integrity

In collaboration with the VP, progressively build knowledge of standards and processes to uphold the integrity of the certification mark.

Essential Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Minimum 8‑10 years of progressive experience leading program operations in a nonprofit or related setting, including at least 2 years of staff supervision.

Strong financial acumen and budget oversight experience.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent education and experience.

Knowledge of animal welfare practices or familiarity with the entertainment and film industry.

Proven ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Exceptional written, verbal, active‑listening, and interpersonal communication skills.

Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to manage competing priorities.

Strong judgment, decision‑making skills, and capacity for diplomacy and collaboration.

Willingness to work extended or non‑traditional hours as needed.

Commitment to AHS’s mission and values.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; quick learner of new software.

Direct Reports

Sr. Manager, Program & Accounting Operations

Sr. Manager, Scheduling

Pre‑Production Manager

Two Certified Animal Safety Representatives

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Hybrid office/telework based from the Studio City, CA office with telework schedule as needed.

Comfortable working with animals, especially dogs, in the office and at events.

Minimal domestic travel for events and meetings.

Availability to respond to staff outside traditional office hours.

Regularly required to work on a computer for extended periods, and to talk, hear, and exchange information.

Core Values

Compassion

– Being kind and caring in interactions.

Accountability

– Holding ourselves to the highest standards and following through on commitments.

Respect for All

– Being professional, listening, and honoring diversity.

Loyalty to Mission

– Staying focused on our purpose and mission.

Sustainability

– Contributing to a great workplace and achieving shared goals.

Honesty, Integrity, Trust

– Demonstrating transparency as trusted stewards of resources.

American Humane Society (AHS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a welcoming, supportive workplace where our work makes a real difference in animals’ lives.

Job Details

Title: Director, Program Operations

Type: Full‑Time/Exempt

Location: Hybrid, Studio City, CA

Compensation: $120,000+

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