Acting Director

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 UK
• 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

Ness Drive

Shaldon

Nr.Teignmouth

Devon

TQ14 0HP

tracey@shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Closing date for applications is Friday 10^th August 2012

For Your Information

How to Get a Job in a Zoo

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