About the role
This is a unique opportunity to lead the RSPCA Cairns Animal Care Shelter, where you will be responsible for driving high-quality animal welfare outcomes through strategic planning, operational excellence, and meaningful community engagement. You'll lead a passionate team, foster strong relationships across departments and with external partners, and help grow the presence and impact of RSPCA in Far North Queensland.
• Champion animal welfare outcomes through strategic leadership and shelter operations.
• Develop and implement a localised strategic plan aligned with RSPCA Qld’s mission.
• Lead a high-performing team, ensuring best-practice animal care aligned with the RSPCA Five Domains model.
• Oversee staff and volunteer management including recruitment, training, and performance development.
• Coordinate and promote adoption, fostering, and paid services such as training classes and merchandise sales.
• Manage budgets, inventory, maintenance, and compliance in line with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Build strong stakeholder relationships and represent RSPCA Qld at community events, supporter days, and education sessions.
• Analyse trends, report on outcomes, and continually improve processes to meet strategic goals.
• Promote a collaborative, respectful, and solutions-focused team culture as the organisation expands its regional footprint.
About you
Your skills and qualifications may include:
• A bachelor’s degree in Business Management or a related field (preferred).
• A current driver’s licence (essential).
• Proven experience in team leadership and performance management.
• Strong understanding of animal behaviour, health, and welfare.
• Knowledge of relevant animal welfare legislation and compliance requirements.
• Skilled in crisis management and WHS best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Experience in managing budgets, inventory, and reporting systems.
• Commitment to professional communication and collaborative teamwork.
• Customer service focus with the ability to engage positively with a wide range of stakeholders.
We welcome applicants with transferable skills from other industries who align with RSPCA’s mission and are eager to make a meaningful impact in animal welfare.
Why Join Us?
•Work Your Way: Embrace a flexible working environment that adapts to your life.
•Comprehensive Support: Enjoy peace of mind with 8 weeks paid parental leave, flexible working arrangements, study leave, and even leave for your furry companions! Plus, access to counselling and mental health services whenever you need.
•Perks Galore: From free on-site parking to exclusive staff discounts, novated leases, free pet vaccines, and 50% off Royal Canin pet food, we’ve got you covered! And yes, you can even welcome a new best friend with free animal adoption options.
•Grow with Us: Unlock your potential through expansive learning and development programs designed to elevate your career and skill set.
•Animal Interaction: Your days will be filled with countless opportunities to connect with the animals in our care—every moment here has a tail-wagging, heartwarming purpose.
•Purpose-Driven Impact: Join a mission-driven organisation where every task you embrace makes a real difference to the welfare of animals. Be a part of something that truly matters!
Interested?
Apply now, shortlisting may commence before the closing date, so apply today to be part of our mission!
Successful candidates will be subject to a Police Check. We conduct police checks to ensure the safety and well-being of the community, staff, and the animals in our care. Candidates may also be required to undergo a pre-employment medical assessment.
RSPCA Qld acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of the nation and the Traditional Custodians of the land. RSPCA Qld is an equal opportunity employer, firmly committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process. We embrace diversity and welcome all people irrespective of faith, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.