Executive Director

REINS is seeking an experienced, visionary, and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth, innovation, and service. Position Summary The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of REINS Therapeutic Horsemanship Program and is responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, financial stewardship, fundraising leadership, and organizational management. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director leads the senior management team and works collaboratively with staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to advance the mission and long-term sustainability of REINS. The Executive Director serves as the organization’s primary ambassador, ensuring excellence in therapeutic services while promoting a culture of integrity, accountability, collaboration, innovation, and respect. Essential Responsibilities Leadership & Governance Partner with the Board of Directors to establish strategic priorities and organizational goals. Lead, mentor, and develop the senior leadership team. Foster a positive, collaborative, and mission-driven organizational culture. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, employment laws, nonprofit regulations, and applicable mental health program requirements. Financial Management Oversee the organization’s financial health in partnership with the Chief Financial Officer. Develop and monitor annual operating budgets and long-term financial plans. Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational assets, grant funding, and charitable contributions. Fundraising & Community Relations Lead fundraising efforts, including major donor cultivation, grants, sponsorships, special events, and community partnerships. Serve as the primary spokesperson and representative of REINS. Strengthen relationships with donors, foundations, government agencies, community organizations, and strategic partners. Program & Operations Provide executive oversight of all organizational programs and operations through the senior leadership team. Ensure participant safety, exceptional program quality, equine welfare, and operational excellence. Maintain PATH International Premier Accreditation standards and organizational compliance. Ensure equine emergency evacuation plans remain current, are regularly reviewed, and are exercised as appropriate. Support innovation, strategic growth, and continuous organizational improvement. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred. Minimum of five years of executive or senior nonprofit leadership experience. Comparable education and leadership experience may be considered. Demonstrated success in fundraising, financial management, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. Experience working effectively with a Board of Directors. Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills. Knowledge of nonprofit governance, human resources, and employment law. Familiarity with PATH International standards or equine-assisted services is preferred. Equine experience is desirable but not required. Knowledge of equine-assisted mental wellness programs, credentialing requirements, and HIPAA regulations is desirable. Leadership Qualities The successful candidate will demonstrate: Visionary and collaborative leadership. Integrity, sound judgment, and ethical decision-making. The ability to empower, mentor, and delegate effectively. Strong financial and organizational management skills. Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities. Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. A commitment to the mission, values, and future growth of REINS. Compensation Salary: $95,000–$125,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. About REINS Founded in 1984, REINS Therapeutic Horsemanship Program has been transforming lives through equine-assisted services for more than 42 years. As a PATH International Premier Accredited Center, REINS provides high-quality therapeutic horsemanship and equine-assisted programs serving children, adults, veterans, and families throughout Southern California. REINS is committed to enriching lives through the healing power of horses while fostering an environment of compassion, excellence, safety, and inclusion. With a dedicated team of staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners, REINS continues to expand its impact and meet the growing needs of those it serves. In 2023, REINS expanded its services to include equine-assisted mental wellness programming for active‑duty military personnel, veterans, individuals struggling with addiction, and at‑risk youth. PATH Certified Equine Specialists in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL), working alongside REINS instructors, provide transformative programs that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth. REINS also operates REINS of Valor, which serves military service members and veterans. #J-18808-Ljbffr