No Animals Were Harmed: American Humane CEO Robin Ganzert
Dec 20, 2023
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Robin Ganzert, CEO of American Humane, discusses her journey revitalizing the organization, transitioning to the nonprofit sector, navigating financial crisis, inheriting and restructuring a nonprofit organization, raising money, and building an empowered leadership team.
Implementing effective strategies and focusing on transparency and positivity in leadership can turn around a struggling organization.
Moral courage and fostering a positive culture are crucial aspects of effective leadership, inspiring and empowering others.
Deep dives
Turning around American Humane: From Financial Ruin to Thriving
Robin Gansert became the CEO of American Humane in 2010, only to discover that the organization was in $12.5 million of debt. Over the next three years, she implemented a series of changes and turned the organization around, saving it from financial ruin. She focused on cutting costs, selling assets, and restructuring the organization's programs. Gansert also emphasized the importance of transparency and positivity in leadership, fostering trust and engagement among the staff. Through resilient leadership, strategic fundraising, and initiatives like the Hero Dog Awards, American Humane regained stability and became one of the most influential animal welfare groups in the US.
Choosing Purpose over Profit: A Career Transition into Nonprofit
Robin Gansert's decision to leave a stable and lucrative job in the corporate world to work for a nonprofit organization was influenced by a transformative moment she had during a church service with her son. She realized her desire to make a purposeful and meaningful impact in the world, which led her to transition into the nonprofit sector. Gansert's background in finance and her passion for animal welfare advocacy aligned perfectly when she was offered a position at American Humane. This career shift allowed her to combine her skills and values to drive meaningful change in the organization.
Overcoming Crisis through Transformational Leadership
Upon joining American Humane, Robin Gansert faced numerous challenges, including a depleted reserve, a daunting deficit budget, and a demoralized staff. To address these issues, Gansert implemented a transformational leadership strategy. She focused on aligning the organization's culture with its mission, restructuring programs, and fostering a positive and accountable work environment. Gansert also prioritized transparency and engaged in strategic conversations with the board and constituents. Through decisive actions and unwavering commitment, she successfully turned the organization around, ensuring American Humane's ability to carry out its mission of animal welfare.
Leadership Lessons: Moral Courage and Positive Culture
Robin Gansert emphasizes the importance of moral courage and positivity in leadership. She believes that effective leaders must have the moral courage to make tough decisions, even in the face of opposition. Gansert also highlights the significance of fostering a positive culture within an organization. By cultivating trust, transparency, kindness, and accountability, leaders can create an environment where people feel empowered and motivated to contribute to the mission. According to Gansert, leaders should possess a deep understanding of their people and organization and exhibit qualities that inspire and motivate others.
When Robin Ganzert joined American Humane as it’s new president and CEO, she thought she was helming one of the oldest and best known animal welfare organizations in the US. What she didn’t know was that American Humane was $12.2 million dollars in debt following the 2009 financial crisis. By running the non-profit more like a for-profit, Robin fixed American Humane’s finances while changing its work culture and branding.
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