Our Client:
Young Animal Protection Society (YAPS) is a not-for-profit organisation in Cairns dedicated to the care, shelter, and rehoming of homeless and unwanted dogs and cats. YAPS also provides boarding services and is proudly a no-kill shelter. Guided by the principles of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence (C.A.R.E.), YAPS strives to deliver outstanding animal welfare services while supporting the local community.
The Opportunity:
YAPS is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of its shelter. This hands-on role is perfect for a proactive, organised professional with a passion for animal welfare and strong leadership skills. Reporting to the Management Committee, you will manage staff, operational processes, and administrative functions while ensuring compliance with legislation and best-practice guidelines. The successful applicant will be able to immerse themselves in YAPS’ not-for-profit ethos, lead personnel through workplace change, and embrace the passion that employees bring to the workplace.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
* Leading and managing shelter staff, including recruitment, rostering, performance management, training, development, and fostering a positive team culture aligned with YAPS values.
* Overseeing the day-to-day operation of animal-related activities, ensuring the welfare of all animals and compliance with health, safety, and operational standards.
* Managing the acquisition, storage, and maintenance of supplies, equipment, and resources to support efficient shelter operations.
* Coordinating public relations, client communications, and community engagement to promote YAPS’ mission and services.
* Developing, implementing, and reviewing policies and procedures to maintain operational excellence.
* Maintaining accurate and functional information and communication systems for administration and reporting purposes.
* Overseeing budgeting, monitoring expenditure, and ensuring financial accountability.
* Preparing and reporting key performance indicators and operational updates to the Management Committee.
Your Skills & Experience:
* Knowledge, or the ability to quickly acquire knowledge, of animal welfare, shelter management, rehoming, and pet boarding operations.
* Proven ability to supervise and inspire staff, applying modern HR practices, including workplace health and safety, ethical behaviour, and team development.
* Strong written and oral communication skills, including reporting, liaison, negotiation, and presentations.
* Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands and meet deadlines.
* Competence in computer systems and software supporting administration, financial management, and operational reporting.
* Current, unrestricted Queensland Driver’s Licence.
The Offer:
This is a unique opportunity to lead a highly respected, community-focused animal welfare organisation. The role offers a hands-on, varied work environment, the chance to make a real impact in the Cairns community, and the opportunity to shape operational practices, support staff development, and contribute directly to YAPS’ mission of delivering high-quality care and rehoming services for animals.
To ensure compliance with Australian employment law, this role is only open to candidates who possess either the right to work in Australia, permanent residency, citizenship status or visa status.
How to Apply:
To apply online, click ‘apply’ at the top of this page, or contact our designated Recruitment Consultant, Goda Kulikauskaite on 07 4051 9*** or ****@cbcstaff.com.au for a confidential discussion.
At CBC Staff Selection, we are dedicated to fostering an environment that champions equal opportunity, embraces diversity, promotes inclusion and prioritises flexibility and accessibility. All communication with CBC Staff Selection is managed in a highly confidential manner, and your details will not be shared with any future employer without your prior consent.
CBC Staff Selection – Redefining Recruitment
With over 36 years’ recruitment experience, CBC Staff Selection specialises in providing professional, quality recruitment services to a wide range of candidates and clients throughout both Far North Queensland (Cairns region) and North Queensland (Townsville and Mackay region) as well as Regional Queensland.
Job Reference: 1689365/GK