Head of Animal Operations

Head of Animal Operations — Animal Welfare League Qld

Due to an internal promotion, we have an exciting opportunity as the Head of Animal Operations. You will be a pivotal, hands-on leader overseeing our five Rehoming Centres and their council contracts. Reporting directly to our CEO, you will shape the strategic direction of our rehoming programs and ensure they are among the most successful in Australia. You will work directly with our Rehoming Centre Managers and local councils to achieve our vision.

• Strategic Leadership: Vision & Strategy — Work directly with the CEO to set the strategy for one of the most successful adoption programs in Australia, focused on placing companion animals into permanent loving homes.
  Change Management — Champion change and process improvement to align with organisational goals and a One Welfare approach.
  Safety Culture — Drive and embed a safety-focused culture across all centres, ensuring a safe environment for our animals, team, and visitors.
  Budget Oversight — Maintain a cost-effective, high standard of service across all aspects of animal operations. You'll oversee the department's budget and performance targets, ensuring they are met.
  Financial Reporting — Review and report on monthly and annual profits and expenses, investigating any abnormalities to maintain financial health.
• Operational Management: Team Leadership — Lead, mentor, and develop a team of passionate managers.
  Efficiency & Productivity — Ensure systems and policies are effectively implemented to improve efficiency and enhance productivity across all Rehoming Centres.
  Standards & Compliance — Ensure your teams deliver high standards of customer service and animal care. Review and ensure all operational policies and processes comply with regulatory requirements, codes of practice, and workplace health and safety guidelines.
  Operational Support — Provide ongoing operational support and expert advice to Rehoming Centre Managers and their teams, including overseeing performance management and conflict resolution.
• Relationship Management: Council & Stakeholder Relations — Manage and build strong, collaborative relationships with local councils and other key stakeholders.
  Partnerships & Growth — In collaboration with Fundraising, Marketing and Commercial Operations, help identify and secure corporate partnerships, grant opportunities, and develop and implement new adoption initiatives to grow reach and impact.

• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role in the Animal Care / Animal Shelter industry
• Proven experience in multi-site operations
• A valid driver's licence and the commitment to attend all sites regularly

• Exceptional Leadership: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams, fostering a positive and collaborative culture. Skilled at leading change, managing teams, and engaging stakeholders to drive effective outcomes.
• Expert Relationship Builder: Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and advocate for the mission.
• Highly Organised: Strong organisational skills and the ability to effectively manage competing priorities and projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Mission-Driven: Energetic, purpose-driven professional with an unwavering commitment to the values and mission of the organisation.
• Established personal and professional networks that can be leveraged to benefit the organisation.

• A competitive remuneration package of $100k - $110k per annum + Superannuation.
• Flexible work arrangements and access to a hybrid work policy to support work-life balance.
• Convenient location choice at one of the following Rehoming Centres: Coombabah (Gold Coast), Ipswich or Warra.
• Employee discounts on veterinary services.

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