Prior to joining MADACC, Sobel served as Director of Animal Services for Williamson County TX overseeing the construction and start-up of a new regional animal shelter. She also served as an animal control representative Board member of the Texas Federation of Humane Societies.

Sobel served as Director of Program Services at the City of Chicago Commission on Animal Care and Control from 2000 - 2006, implementing progressive programs that helped change the mission, philosophy and culture of Chicago Animal Care and Control. Animal placement increased by nearly 150%, while animal euthanasia decreased by nearly 20%. Some of the initiatives included Chicago's first free, targeted spay/neuter program, Chicago's only mobile spay/neuter program, volunteer and foster care programs, off-site adoption events, website development including pictures of adoptable animals, adoption counseling program, free dog training program, special events and marketing campaign. She also served as a Board member for the Illinois Animal Welfare Federation and Friends of Chicago Animal Care and Control, and as a member of Chicago Public Schools Character Education Advisory Council.

Prior to 2000, Sobel worked in the nonprofit environmental field at Chicago's Friends of the Parks as Director of Community and Governmental Relations.

Ms. Sobel received her Masters in Public Service Administration from DePaul University in Chicago, IL. She resides in Milwaukee with her two rescued dogs, Stella and Dutchess.