Executive Director

Executive DirectorGood Life Refuge, Ft. Collins/GreeleyNonprofit, Full-time, Executive, $70,000 - $78,600The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and visionary leader of Good Life Refuge, responsible for the organization's overall strategy, sustainability, and impact. This role oversees fundraising, staff leadership, marketing and communications, donor stewardship, and strategic planning, while working closely with the Board of Directors and supporting the Farm Manager and sanctuary staff.The ideal candidate is a compassionate, mission-driven leader with strong fundraising experience and a collaborative leadership style.Key ResponsibilitiesFundraising & DevelopmentLead and execute all fundraising efforts, with a strong emphasis on major gifts and capital campaignsCultivate, steward, and grow relationships with individual donors, sponsors, and partnersWork with the Board to set and achieve annual fundraising goalsOversee grant strategy and sponsorship opportunities, including gala and special eventsMarketing & CommunicationsOversee organizational marketing efforts, including events, social media, newsletters, and donor communicationsEnsure consistent, compelling storytelling that reflects the mission, values, and impact of Good Life RefugeSupport planning and execution of fundraising events, including the annual galaStrengthen brand visibility and community engagementDonor Stewardship & Community RelationsCultivate and build authentic, long-term relationships with donors and supportersEnsure donors feel informed, appreciated, and connected to the animals and missionBuild up and expand recurring donor base programServe as an ambassador for Good Life Refuge within the community and beyondStaff Leadership & OperationsSupervise, support, and mentor staff, fostering a positive, inclusive, and mission-aligned work cultureOversee and coordinate with the Farm Manager to support sanctuary operations and animal care needsCollaborate across departments to ensure alignment between care, fundraising, and outreachSupport staff development and organizational growth; including hiring new staff and maximizing volunteer engagement and operational assistanceStrategic Planning & GovernancePartner with the Board of Directors on vision, policy, and organizational oversightParticipate in strategic planning efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and impactTrack progress toward goals and adapt strategies as neededEnsure ethical, transparent, and responsible organizational practicesQualificationsProven experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, or development (capital campaign experience strongly preferred)Strong communication and relationship-building skillsExperience managing and supporting staff in a collaborative environmentPassion for animal welfare, sanctuary work, and compassionate educationStrong organizational, strategic, and problem-solving skillsAbility to balance big-picture vision with day-to-day leadershipPreferred ExperienceExperience in animal welfare, sanctuary, or mission-driven nonprofit workKnowledge of donor stewardship best practicesEvent planning and public-facing leadership experienceWhy Join Good Life RefugeThis is an opportunity to lead a growing sanctuary at a pivotal moment—shaping its future, strengthening its impact, and ensuring lifelong care for animals who need it most. The Executive Director plays a vital role in building a compassionate community and sustaining a mission rooted in kindness, dignity, and respect.Benefits10 days paid time off for the first year, starts 90 days after employmentHealth insurance stipends (included as a part of salary)Hybrid environment (onsite once per week and in case of disaster / emergency)Flexible scheduling within a 40-hour biweekly framework, with occasional availability on weekends and evenings for donor tours and sanctuary eventsHow to ApplyTo apply, please submit the following materials via email to View email address on click.appcast.io:A current resumeA cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.We may request references at a later time.In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.Good Life Refuge is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.