About the Role

The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) is seeking an Executive Director to lead the nation’s preeminent legal advocacy organisation dedicated exclusively to protecting animals through the legal system.

Founded in 1979 by attorneys from the then-emerging field of animal law, ALDF advances legal protections for animals through litigation, legislative advocacy, criminal justice support, regulatory reform, public education, and legal scholarship.

Guided by its vision of a world where the lives and interests of animals are recognised, respected, and protected within the legal system, ALDF has become one of the most influential voices in animal protection law.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will:

• Guide strategic integration across ALDF’s programmes.
• Cultivate relationships with major donors and foundations.
• Build partnerships with allied organisations and institutions.
• Support effective organisational governance.
• Represent ALDF through media engagement, public speaking, and thought leadership.

The next leader will have the opportunity to build on ALDF’s strong foundation and recent successes while positioning the organisation for even greater impact in the years ahead.

Who We Are Looking For

ALDF is seeking a visionary, collaborative, and mission-driven leader with significant senior nonprofit leadership experience and a demonstrated passion for animal protection and legal advocacy.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Expertise in strategic planning.
• Strong operational and financial management experience.
• Proven fundraising ability.
• Experience leading and developing teams.
• A proven ability to lead a national organisation.
• The ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $235,000–$250,000.
• Employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Generous paid time off.
• Wellness leave.
• Holiday benefits.
• Participation in a 401(k) retirement plan.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through Kittleman & Associates, LLC.

For best consideration, please submit a current resume and letter of introduction by 7 August 2026.

About the Organisation

The Animal Legal Defense Fund's mission is to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system. The Animal Legal Defense Fund accomplishes this mission by filing high-impact lawsuits to protect animals from harm, providing free legal assistance and training to prosecutors to assure that animal abusers are held accountable for their crimes, supporting tough animal protection legislation and fighting legislation harmful to animals, and providing resources and opportunities to law students and professionals to advance the emerging field of animal law.