Acting Director
Shaldon Wildlife Trust
Circa £18,000 per annum plus two-bedroom cottage
The Trust is looking to recruit an acting Director initially on a fixed term 12 month contract. This is a residential position with unfurnished accommodation and some utilities provided. The job entails a 40 hour 5-day working week including weekend rotas.
This is a demanding role for an enthusiastic, highly motivated and passionate individual.
Shaldon Wildlife Trust is highly regarded within the zoo community despite its modest size. It houses a wide range of conservation-sensitive species including smaller primates, a range of small mammals, some birds, reptiles and invertebrates.
The Trust has recently undergone a £400,000 expansion which has doubled the size of the site and added a dedicated education building. We are seeking a high-performing individual from within the zoo profession who has the enthusiasm and drive to embrace this challenging position. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day running of the Trust including on-site security, Health & Safety, other legislative responsibilities such as zoo licensing and preparing regular reports for the Board of Trustees.
The two permanent members of staff are supported by a large work force of volunteers. The Trust also provides training and work experience for a wide range of students at all academic levels. You must be committed to professional development of yourself and other staff.
Duties include:
- Animal husbandry, feeding, cleaning, enclosure refurbishment etc…
- Dealing with visitors, volunteers and Trust members
- Recruitment and training of staff and volunteers
- Organising fundraising events and grant applications
- Preparing and depositing banking
- Dealing with veterinary issues
- Ordering, collecting supplies and dealing with suppliers
- Preparing press releases and dealing with the media generally including social networks
- Representing the Trust at relevant zoo meetings within the
- Liaising with BIAZA and EAZA concerning breeding programmes and supported conservation projects
The ideal candidate will have:
- A true understanding of the conservation and educational role of zoos
- Exceptional inter-personal & leadership skills and a hands-on approach
- A proven track record of managing staff and working with volunteers
- Knowledge and experience of marketing, PR and fundraising
- Business/Administration management skills including responsibility for budgets and cash handling
- Proficiency in IT
- A full driving license
Other desirable qualities:
- Practical building and maintenance skills
- An interest in horticulture
- Possession of a fire arms license or a willingness to train
- Animal record keeping skills
Applicants should send a covering letter and CV to:
The Director
Shaldon Wildlife Trust
Shaldon
Nr.Teignmouth
TQ14 0HP
Closing date for applications is Friday 10th August 2012
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