Steve Kaufman

Steve Kaufman is a dynamic and visionary leader with over 30 years of experience in the animal welfare and nonprofit sectors. His career has been dedicated to fostering the human-animal bond, driving systemic change, and supporting the resilience of organizations and their teams. Steve specializes in strategic planning, program development, and creating positive workplace cultures.

Professional Highlights

• Greater Good Charities (2022 – 2024)
  As Executive Vice President of Operations, Steven led key initiatives, including establishing the organization’s first distribution center and expanding global supply chain capabilities. He developed disaster response protocols and spearheaded the implementation of a new ERP/CRM system to enhance grant-making efficiency.
• PetSmart Charities, Inc. (2016 – 2022)
  In roles including Senior Manager of Adoption Initiatives and Center of Excellence Manager, Steven managed over $100 million in grant funding and facilitated the adoption of over 500,000+ pets annually. He launched groundbreaking initiatives, including bilingual adoption events and partnerships with Native American and First Nations communities.
• Animal Protective Association of Missouri (2005 – 2016)
  Steven served as Executive Director, leading a $2 million capital campaign for facility improvements and rebranding efforts. He established a public veterinary clinic, developed innovative programs to increase adoptions, and implemented community-focused strategies.
• Humane Society of Boulder Valley (2001 – 2002)
  As Director of Operations, Steve oversaw the Humane Society of Boulder Valley’s day-to-day operations, including managing Animal Control Services for Arapahoe County, CO. Additionally, Steve assisted the organization’s transition into a new state-of-the-art facility and consistently progressive programming.
• Humane Society of Missouri (2000 – 2001)
  Steven directed adoption center operations, overseeing programs that promoted pet adoptions and community education from an adoption center that took in over 20,000 animals annually.  He also assisted the Animal Cruelty Task force on large scale impoundments of puppy mill dogs, hoarding cases, and livestock confiscations. 
• Central Missouri Humane Society (1990 – 2000)
  In his early career, Steven served as Shelter Operations Manager and Boone County Cruelty & Neglect Investigator, advocating for animals in need and building his foundation in animal welfare.

Steven studied Sociology and Criminal Justice at the University of Missouri and Columbia College. He was a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator and has extensive certifications in areas of animal control and disaster response, with over 100 hours of coursework with the National Animal Control Association and the Law Enforcement Training Institute. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Steven continues to inspire positive change in the animal welfare industry.

LinkedIn Profile