The Livestock Conservancy is seeking its next executive director, launching a nationwide search for a dynamic leader.
As the chief operating officer of the Pittsboro, North Carolina-based nonprofit, the executive director will lead a team of 11 full-time professional staff, direct operational initiatives and support a 19-member board of directors. The organization’s programs and development activities aim to promote, preserve and protect over 180 endangered heritage livestock and poultry breeds.
Founded in 1977 at a kitchen table in Vermont by dedicated livestock producers, The Livestock Conservancy began with a mission to save shrinking breed populations from extinction. Today, the organization has grown to more than 3,000 members and manages a $1 million annual budget. Its annual “Conservation Priority List” highlights efforts to protect threatened traditional livestock breeds across 11 agricultural species.
A committee chaired by Gloria Basse, a former Vice President for US Pork Business at Zoetis, has been formed by the volunteer board of directors to conduct the nationwide search for a new executive director. Basse, currently the Senior Executive Director for Tonisity International and a Senior Associate at The Context Network, has 30 years of experience in marketing, sales and leadership roles in Animal Health. Former Livestock Conservancy board member and Rocky Mountain horse breeder, Dr. Judy Brummer, is serving as interim executive director until the position is filled, expected by mid-2024.
“We are looking for someone with a huge passion for heritage breed livestock,” Basse explained. “The Livestock Conservancy needs someone with great leadership qualities, exceptional communication talents and superb listening skills. Candidates with a financial background who bring inspiration for growth will be especially strong.”
Ideal candidates will be seasoned, energetic leaders with experience in animal agriculture. Familiarity with nonprofit operations, financing, fundraising, and management will be crucial for success in this role. The executive director’s responsibilities include visionary leadership, financial oversight and staff management. Key components of the job also include leading efforts in programming, fundraising and member recruitment and retention.
For more details about the position, search, and application process, please visit The Livestock Conservancy’s website at https://livestockconservancy.org/about-us/jobs/.
