HSSA Restructures with Layoffs and New Roles

News Summary

The Humane Society of Southern Arizona has announced the elimination of eight full-time positions in a significant restructuring effort. CEO Dr. Kristin Barney unveiled the layoffs alongside the creation of four new roles aimed at improving operational efficiency and animal lifesaving outcomes. Affected employees received severance and support services while also being encouraged to apply for new positions. This restructuring follows efforts to strengthen the organization’s financial health amidst increased demand for its services, particularly the Pet Pantry program.

Tucson, Arizona – The Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA) has announced the elimination of eight full-time positions as part of a significant restructuring effort aimed at enhancing the organization’s operational efficiency and financial health. The layoffs were disclosed by CEO Dr. Kristin Barney on Friday, coinciding with the introduction of four new roles designed to advance strategic priorities and increase lifesaving outcomes for animals.

The terminated positions include:

• Adoptions supervisor
• Lost and found lead
• Outreach and resources manager
• Director of education and community outreach
• Shelter operations manager
• Assistant outcomes manager
• Feline behavior coordinator
• Phone operator

In contrast, the newly created positions consist of:

• Senior Shelter Manager
• Behavior Manager
• Community Engagement Manager
• Part-time Pet Pantry Liaison

As part of the transition, those affected by the layoffs received two weeks of severance pay, health insurance coverage through June, and access to free resume-writing services. Furthermore, employees were encouraged to apply for the newly established roles as well as other opportunities within HSSA.

Dr. Barney, who took the helm approximately a year ago, has been working on enhancing the nonprofit’s financial stability while addressing past controversies related to animal transfers. These issues included the controversial transfer of over 300 small animals from the San Diego Humane Society, during which claims of mismanagement surfaced. Investigations into these transfers were ultimately closed due to a lack of sufficient evidence for any criminal charges.

Although eight employees were laid off, it is noteworthy that no walkouts occurred in response to the layoffs. However, four staff members chose to resign amid this restructuring phase. There has been a marked increase in demand for HSSA’s Pet Pantry program, which provides essential pet supplies to families experiencing financial difficulties.

This restructuring process follows extensive efforts over the past year aimed at reducing expenses and bolstering revenue, according to Dr. Barney. The organization anticipates that these changes will align its operations with national best practices in animal welfare, ensuring it can continue to fulfill its mission. HSSA remains the oldest and largest nonprofit animal welfare agency in the Southern Arizona region, committed to improving the lives of animals while supporting their guardians.

The recent changes at HSSA come during a time of heightened need for its services, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by families in the community. As the organization pivots towards new strategies and priorities, it aims to strengthen its role in animal welfare and community engagement moving forward.

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