Application Guide
How to Apply for Executive Director
at Senterra Funders
๐ข About Senterra Funders
Senterra Funders is a unique collaborative of philanthropists dedicated to transforming the food system by ending factory farming. Working here means being at the heart of strategic grantmaking and movement building, with the potential to significantly reduce animal suffering and environmental harm. If you're passionate about systemic change and enjoy fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, this is a rare opportunity to lead a mission-driven network.
About This Role
As the Executive Director, you will lead a small but impactful team in driving the strategy and growth of a funder network focused on farmed animal advocacy. This role is pivotal in mobilizing resources and building relationships that can shift philanthropic capital toward more humane and sustainable food systems. You'll oversee member engagement, strategic planning, and fundraising, making a direct impact on the movement's effectiveness.
๐ก A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with your remote team, followed by a call with a potential funder to discuss the network's impact. You might spend time reviewing strategy documents, preparing for an upcoming member call, or traveling to meet with partners. Afternoons could involve budget analysis, writing a grant proposal, or facilitating a working group on movement strategy.
๐ Application Tools
๐ฏ Who Senterra Funders Is Looking For
- Proven leader with 7+ years in the farmed animal movement, ideally with experience in philanthropy, advocacy, or non-profit management.
- Existing relationships with funders, donors, or key stakeholders in the animal protection or food system space, with a track record of successful fundraising.
- Strong strategic thinker who can translate high-level goals into actionable plans, and has experience managing budgets and teams (6-7 staff).
- Excellent communicator and relationship-builder, comfortable engaging with high-net-worth individuals and facilitating collaborative spaces.
๐ Tips for Applying to Senterra Funders
Research Senterra's current initiatives and recent grants to understand their strategic focus, and tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your alignment with their goals.
Emphasize your existing relationships with funders or leaders in the farmed animal spaceโbe specific about any collaborations, networks, or partnerships you've been part of.
Showcase your experience in both strategy development and operational management, as the role requires balancing big-picture vision with day-to-day team and budget oversight.
In your cover letter, mention specific examples of how you've grown philanthropic capital or successfully engaged members in a network or coalition.
Since travel is required, be clear about your willingness and ability to travel quarterly to monthly, and highlight any experience with remote team management.
โ๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your deep commitment to ending factory farming and your understanding of the current landscape and key players.', 'Your track record in fundraising and building relationships with funders, with concrete examples of dollars raised or partnerships forged.', 'Your leadership experience, particularly in managing teams and developing strategy in a collaborative environment.', 'Your ability to serve as a thought leader and resource on movement issues, demonstrating your knowledge of effective advocacy and systemic change.']
Generate Cover Letter โ๐ Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- โ Review Senterra's website, annual reports, and any public statements to understand their funding priorities and impact metrics.
- โ Look into the backgrounds of current team members and board members to understand their expertise and networks.
- โ Research the broader field of farmed animal philanthropy, including major players like Open Philanthropy, The Good Food Institute, and other funder collaboratives.
- โ Familiarize yourself with recent trends in alternative proteins and policy wins to speak knowledgeably about the movement's progress.
๐ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
โ ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't underestimate the importance of existing funder relationshipsโif you lack them, be upfront and explain your plan to build them quickly.
- Avoid being vague about your experience with budgeting and team management; provide specific numbers and outcomes.
- Don't focus solely on your passion for animals without demonstrating strategic and operational acumenโthis is a leadership role, not just an advocacy one.
๐ Application Timeline
โฐ Deadline: September 21, 2026
We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Senterra Funders!