Head of Operations

About Us

For over 60 years, Animal Welfare League NSW (AWL NSW) has been a leading registered charity dedicated to providing expert care for surrendered, neglected, and abandoned companion animals across NSW.

The Opportunity

Are you a strategic leader passionate about improving the lives of animals? AWL NSW is seeking a dynamic Head of Operations to lead our Shelter, Foster & Rehoming, and Veterinary Clinic teams. This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact on animal welfare across NSW.

About the Role

As Head of Operations, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all animal welfare services, ensuring excellence in service delivery, compliance with legislation, and continuous improvement. You'll work closely with internal teams, external partners, and regulatory bodies to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care for every animal in our guardianship.

This role is pivotal in driving operational performance, embedding best practices, and developing policies and procedures that align with AWL NSW's mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee Shelter, Foster & Rehoming, Inspectorate, and Vet Clinic operations to achieve organisational goals.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and SOPs to ensure compliance, consistency, and service excellence.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement across teams.
• Manage risks, WHS compliance, and ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of staff and volunteers.
• Build strong relationships with councils, veterinary partners, community groups, and key stakeholders.
• Monitor and report on key operational KPIs to inform strategic decisions.
• Mentor, coach, and develop staff to build capability and engagement.

Why You'll Love It Here

At AWL NSW, you'll find more than just a job — you'll join a passionate, values-driven organisation where your leadership truly matters.

• Shape the Future: Work alongside a collaborative executive team and influence strategy, culture, and the direction of animal welfare services across NSW.
• Grow Professionally: Access funded professional development opportunities and continuous learning to expand your skills and leadership capability.
• Be Rewarded: Enjoy competitive pay, employee benefits, retail discounts, and access to our Employee Assistance Program.
• Feel Valued: Join a workplace that recognises and celebrates meaningful work and fosters a culture of respect, compassion, and collaboration.
• Make a Real Impact: Every decision you make will contribute to better outcomes for animals, staff, and the community — every single day.

About You

You are a proven operations leader with:

• At least 10+ years of experience in a similar role
• Tertiary qualifications or equivalent experience gained from managing animal welfare operations
• Proven experience in animal welfare and shelter operations, including intake, assessment, adoption, and foster programs
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing large, diverse teams and driving change
• Strategic thinking, risk management, and strong decision-making capability
• Experience in project management, budgeting, and operational planning
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Commercial acumen and a genuine commitment to ethical animal welfare practices

How to Apply

If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, together with your resume highlighting your experience and qualifications.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Larna Rouillon, Head of People and Culture, on

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia to be considered.

We are committed to equal opportunities in employment and welcome interest from all suitably qualified candidates.