Chief executive jobs for the Animal sector

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to guide us through an exciting period of growth, transformation and renewed strategic ambition.

At Little Valley, our purpose is clear: to promote kindness, prevent cruelty, and provide outstanding welfare for the animals who rely on us. Our next Chief Executive Officer will inspire staff and volunteers, strengthen community partnerships, and lead with clarity, compassion and courage.

About the role

Our team is united by our compassion, collaboration, integrity, excellence and deep connection to our community - values that guide every decision we make. We are looking for a Chief Executive Officer who will champion these values in everything they do.

We are in a pivotal moment of investment and cultural renewal, with major developments underway - including improved facilities, modernisation of systems, strategic income growth and strengthened community engagement. This is your opportunity to lead an ambitious and much‑loved charity into its next chapter.

Key Responsibilities

(Full Job Description and Person Specification attached.)

• Lead the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with our mission, values and long‑term goals.
• Drive high‑quality, compassionate animal welfare services across all operational areas.
• Provide visible, empathetic leadership that supports a positive culture for staff and volunteers.
• Ensure strong financial stewardship, diversifying income and securing long‑term sustainability.
• Strengthen partnerships, community profile and external relationships across the region.
• Champion innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement at every level.

About You

You’ll bring proven senior leadership experience, exceptional communication skills, strong financial and governance capability, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead a complex and values‑driven organisation. Above all, you’ll bring a genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to ensuring values remain at the heart of everything we do.

Why join us?

As our Chief Executive Officer, you will lead a dedicated team, steward an organisation with strong foundations, and be at the forefront of shaping a more compassionate future for animals across Devon. This is more than a leadership role - it’s a chance to create lasting impact.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining how your experience, leadership and values make you the right person to become our next Chief Executive Officer.

Application deadline: Tuesday 7 April, 5pm

We encourage applications from leaders who are motivated by purpose, committed to impact and inspired by the opportunity to shape the future of Little Valley Animal Shelter.

#Chief Executive Officer #Chief Executive #CEO #Chief Executive Officer

The Humane League UK is a high-impact charity dedicated to ending the abuse of animals raised for food, combining strategic campaigning with a strong commitment to impact, innovation, and accountability.

As part of The Humane League’s global network, we drive change through influencing the policies of the world’s biggest companies, demanding legislation, and empowering others to take action, improving the lives of millions of animals every year. 

The organisation is now at a pivotal moment. With a strong foundation of success and a growing movement for animal welfare, we are entering a new strategic period, scaling our impact, strengthening our operations, and expanding our influence across the UK and beyond. 

We are now seeking an exceptional Managing Director to lead our dedicated team and help shape the next stage of our journey.

Managing Director 
Remote, UK Based 
Starting Salary of £84,078 or £92,486 for Inner London Weighting. This salary is for 30 hours per week over Monday to Thursday.

The Opportunity 

We are looking for a strategic and dedicated individual to lead The Humane League UK’s operations – setting direction, delivering ambitious campaigns, and ensuring alignment with global priorities, while working with our high-performing, mission-driven team.

As a visible and influential leader, you will represent The Humane League UK externally, building partnerships, influencing corporate and public policy, and strengthening our reputation as a leader in animal advocacy. 

You will also work closely with the global leadership team, Board, staff, and partners. The Managing Director will be the driving force behind The Humane League UK’s strategy and impact. 

You will lead an organisation that is bold, strategic, and outcomes-focused, capable of driving systemic change and accelerating progress towards a more humane food system.
 

About You 

We are looking for an inspirational and strategic leader who brings: 

• Proven experience as a senior visionary strategic leader with an understanding of animal protection and/or food systems. 

• A strong track record of senior leadership, with experience delivering organisational strategy and impact. 

• The ability to lead and inspire high-performing teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. 

• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the credibility and experience in campaigning and influencing across corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors.

• Strategic thinking combined with operational rigour, able to translate vision into action. 

• A strong alignment with our mission and values, and a passion for creating meaningful change.

How to Apply 

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact our retained advisors Erica Ritchie or Anna Gardet via email with a copy of your CV.

Further information can be found at the Prospectus website. 

Recruitment Timetable 

Deadline for applications: Sunday 19th April 
First stage interviews: 5th – 6th May 
Second stage interviews and presentation: 18th – 19th May 

Final stage interviews: 26th – 28th May 

Background

We are Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International. Since 1954, we have worked to create a more humane society for animals. Working side by side as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, we have helped to pass thousands of landmark laws, rescue hundreds of thousands of animals, and cared for and protected millions more.

In 2025, to convey our mission and make sure that everyone understands who we are and the bold work that we do, our organisations are standing together under a new shared name: Humane World for Animals. 

We are dedicated to changing the world for animals. We drive change with human action. We help people, communities, governments, and corporations shift behaviour, providing the right support and advocating for policy change to stem the root causes of suffering and cruelty.

Purpose of role

As the Managing Director for the UK and Europe, you will develop and deliver the European fundraising strategy and plans and oversee the execution of all fundraising activities in Europe. These activities include, but are not limited to individual giving, major gifts, bequests, corporate giving, and community fundraising.

Primary responsibilities

The job holder will have the following key responsibilities: 

• Oversees fundraising activities and performance in Humane World for Animals’ EU and UK offices. Works closely with the Country Directors and the VP of International Fundraising on the execution of the fundraising programmes. Identifies opportunities to improve efficiency and facilitates collaboration efforts across European offices. (30%)
• Manages all fundraisers in the region and ensures they achieve their goals by providing guidance and advice, training, performance management and career development. Coordinates priorities and tasks and monitors progress. (25%)
• Monitors and reports on performance progress towards agreed revenue targets; efficiency and cost-effectiveness (including external fundraising contractors); and challenges or opportunities in the external fundraising environment. (20%)
• Creates and manages the budget for fundraising expenses and income targets. Sets and reviews multi-year and yearly investment and revenue targets. (10%)
• Leads research, planning, and implementation of new marketing initiatives and acquisition programmes, including but not limited to DRTV, face-to-face, telemarketing and PSMS Mobile channels. Establishes effective donor retention strategies and oversees their execution. (10%)
• Works closely with the VP of International Fundraising to develop and execute a strategic vision to grow fundraising income in the Europe region, translating the vision into an action plan, and ensuring the successful implementation and execution of the vision. (5%)

Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and experience

• An academic degree or equivalent work experience is required.
• A minimum of eight or more years of fundraising experience with a proven track record in driving significant, multi-channel revenue growth across multiple markets.
• A minimum of five years of senior management experience leading fundraising or marketing teams, including leadership responsibilities for staff, strategy development and execution, and budget accountability, preferably in the animal welfare arena, required.
• Demonstrated experience scaling high-performing international fundraising programs. International NGO experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to deliver multi‑million income portfolios, optimize ROI, and drive continuous improvement in donor acquisition and retention.
• Experience accurately forecasting and reporting on revenue, expenditures and delivering against agreed KPIs.
• At least five years’ experience in at least one of the following income streams: individual giving, major gifts, bequests, corporate giving, and/or community fundraising. Additionally, a strong preference for marketing experience.

Skills and qualifications

• Excellent people managerial skills: ability to coach, motivate, and manage high‑performing fundraisers across dispersed locations.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to plan workload in order to manage fundraising program priorities and meet agreed targets.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative, entrepreneurial spirit, and drive to achieve desired outcomes.
• Ability to thrive in a matrixed, fast-paced, mission‑driven environment and drive collaboration across countries and functions.
• Knowledge and understanding of GDPR and other data protection regulations.
• Excellent English verbal and written skills.
• Ability to work in a self-directed manner.
• Willing and able to travel extensively in Europe.

Director of Advocacy
£67,000 - £70,000, plus 8% pension contribution 
35 hours per week – flexible working and part-time considered
Permanent role
Hybrid working – home working, with travel to our Godalming office and regular meetings in London

Lead the strategy. Influence the law. Change the future for animals.

The League Against Cruel Sports is the UK’s leading charity working to create a kinder society where animals are never harmed in the name of ‘sport’. From securing the landmark Hunting Act to exposing cruelty through investigations and championing stronger protections, we are driven by compassion and powered by evidence.

We are now seeking a Director of Advocacy — a strategic, inspiring leader who can steer our campaigns, public affairs and intelligence work to deliver meaningful and lasting change for animals. The focus of the role is mission delivery - ending cruel ‘sports’.

About the role

This is a high-profile leadership position at the heart of the organisation, you will oversee the strategy for political change (with a particular focus on England and Wales).

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership for our campaigns, public affairs and intelligence functions (England & Wales).
• Lead organisational planning to ensure our advocacy is aligned, evidence-led and delivers maximum impact.
• Oversee the development of compelling campaigns to influence public opinion and drive legislative change.
• Ensure operational robustness, risk management and governance across all advocacy activities.
• Play a hands-on role developing our strategy for engagement with different press and broadcast media platforms and contributing to our capacity for delivering this work, supporting our Senior Communications Officer.
• Inspire and develop a talented team, line managing the Heads of Campaigns, Intelligence and Public Affairs.
• Work closely with colleagues across fundraising, marketing and senior leadership to ensure a unified approach.
• Support the CEO on strategic messaging, while they remain the organisation’s primary spokesperson.

This role is predominantly internally focused shaping the strategy, strengthening systems, and empowering teams with the evidence and direction needed to create effective advocacy. It is also an exceptional opportunity for someone aspiring to future executive leadership.

About you

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Leadership experience in advocacy, campaigns, media or public affairs (ideally within the charity or campaigning sector).
• A deep understanding of political and legislative processes in England & Wales.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive cross-organisational planning.
• Strong strategic judgement with a track record of influencing policy or social change.
• Experience managing operational risk in complex or high-profile advocacy environments.
• Collaborative leadership style and the ability to inspire, motivate and mentor others.
• A passion for animal welfare and a commitment to creating meaningful, positive change.

Experience in animal welfare, environmental or social justice sectors — as well as existing political contacts — are welcome advantages.

Why join us?

At the League, you’ll be part of a courageous, committed and supportive organisation working every day to end animal cruelty. You’ll shape national debate, influence policy at the highest levels, and help secure a future where animals are protected and respected.

We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance, enjoy flexible working arrangements, including options for compressed hours and remote work from day one. With 28 days (pro-rata) of annual leave, in addition to the public holidays, and a generous employer contribution of eight percent towards your pension scheme, we prioritise your well-being. Additionally, our benefits package includes discounts on shopping, electronics, hospitality and leisure. Find out more about working at the League. 

How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering statement outlining how your experience aligns with the role, by 19 April 2026.

The interview process will include a 30-minute online introduction to our intelligence unit on Thursday 23 or Friday 24 April and an in-person interview at our Godalming Head Office on Tuesday 28 April or Thursday 30 April.

The League Against Cruel Sports is committed to inclusivity and diversity, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

We believe that together we can end animal cruelty in the name of sport. Join us in our purposeful mission to redefine what is acceptable and inspire positive change in animal welfare legislation.  

We are looking for a CRM & Data Officer to take ownership of HorseWorld’s supporter data and CRM system—ensuring it is accurate, compliant and actively enabling our fundraising to grow.

At HorseWorld, we believe in the power of horses to change lives.

For over 70 years, we’ve rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed horses, ponies and donkeys in need. Today, that work reaches further—through our Discovery programme, we partner rescued horses with children and young people who are struggling in mainstream education, helping them rebuild confidence, connection and a sense of possibility.

We are growing our impact, and with that comes the need for strong foundations.
Behind every donation, every supporter, every horse and every young person we reach, there is data we must be able to trust.

This role sits at the heart of that.

The Role

This is a pivotal role within our fundraising team. You will be the person who makes sure our systems work, our income is correctly recorded and reconciled, and our data is handled with care and integrity.

You will work closely with fundraising and finance colleagues, and with the CEO, to ensure that our data not only meets regulatory requirements, but supports better decisions, stronger relationships and increased income.

This is not just about maintaining data.
It’s about making it useful.

Key Responsibilities

CRM & Data Management

• Own and manage HorseWorld’s CRM system, ensuring data accuracy, integrity and usability
• Act as system administrator and lead on any future development or upgrades
• Produce reports and insights to support fundraising performance and decision-making
• Support colleagues to use the CRM effectively through guidance and training

Data Protection & Compliance

• Work with the CEO to ensure compliance with GDPR and relevant fundraising regulations
• Act as a key point of contact for data protection queries and audits
• Maintain clear processes, documentation and staff understanding of data responsibilities

Fundraising Operations & Financial Reconciliation

• Reconcile all fundraising income through the CRM with the Accounts team on a monthly basis
• Ensure all income streams (online platforms, standing orders, events, etc.) are accurately recorded and monitored
• Support fundraising activities and events with data and financial processes

Gift Aid

• Manage and improve Gift Aid processes to ensure efficiency and compliance
• Submit accurate monthly claims and maintain robust records
• Ensure readiness for HMRC inspection at all times

Lottery Administration

• Record and monitor lottery income
• Complete required returns to the Gambling Commission
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements

About You

You are someone who takes pride in getting things right.

You are naturally organised, detail-focused and comfortable working with data, systems and processes. You understand that accuracy matters—not just for compliance, but because it underpins trust, income and impact.

You are equally comfortable working independently and as part of a team, and you bring a practical, problem-solving mindset to your work.

You don’t just keep systems running—you look for ways to make them better.

Experience & Skills

Essential

• Experience working with CRM systems and managing data accurately and systematically
• Strong Excel and IT skills
• Experience in administrative roles involving finance and/or donor data
• Confidence in reconciling income and producing reports
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking

Desirable

• Experience in a fundraising or charity environment
• Knowledge of Gift Aid and charity income processes
• Experience with Beacon CRM or similar systems
• Understanding of GDPR and data protection requirements

Personal Qualities

• Aligned with HorseWorld’s values: Caring, Collaborative, Proactive, Adaptable, Inclusive
• A collaborative team player who builds strong working relationships
• A proactive problem-solver with a “can do” attitude
• Comfortable taking ownership and working with minimal supervision
• Motivated by the impact of our work with horses and young people

Why This Role Matters

Every donation we receive, every supporter we engage, and every programme we deliver relies on data being accurate, compliant and usable.

In this role, your work will directly support:

• the growth of our fundraising income
• the strength of our supporter relationships
• and ultimately, the number of horses and young people we can help

It’s a role with real responsibility—and real impact.

Are you a programme manager who has experience of working on varied fundraising projects?
We’re looking for a Programme Manager (Income Generation), who will apply project management methodologies to align all fundraising activity with the divisional objective: to bring in the funds that make our work possible.

What does this role do?
As Programme Manager (Income Generation), you will:

• apply standardised project management lifecycles, methodologies and governance to all activity in the Income Generation division, ensuring all work is aligned with strategic objectives,
• support the division to design and deliver projects, covering the full project lifecycle from initial scoping to lessons learned and evaluation,
• report on progress throughout projects, proactively identifying and communicating dependencies, risks and priorities,
• engage with stakeholders across the division to understand their projects and challenges, while working closely with the Portfolio team and other Programme Managers to align projects with wider organisational priorities.

Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for 16th and 17th April 2026, and will take place on Teams.

Could this be you?
To be successful in this role, you’ll need experience of delivering complex programmes and business planning, ideally with experience in income generation or fundraising, with an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities projects in this space present. Experience of supporting teams and projects through significant change, preferably supported by a qualification in project management. You’ll be an excellent communicator with strong stakeholder management skills, who works proactively and autonomously, and has experience of managing project budgets. A commitment and passion for the work we do is essential.

About Dogs Trust
We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.

To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.
 
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Our partner, a collaborative platform supporting a network of conservation-focused organisations across Africa, is seeking an experienced finance trainer to design and deliver a high-impact training session for CEOs at an annual partner convention in Southern Africa.

The organisation works with multiple locally-led partners, providing sub-grants alongside tailored capacity strengthening across governance, leadership, finance and operations. As many of the organisations are founder-led, this training will focus on equipping CEOs with the financial knowledge and confidence required to effectively lead and oversee their organisations.

The successful candidate will design and deliver an engaging, practical finance session (c. 3 hours) as part of a wider one-day CEO training programme, tailored to the needs and experience levels of participants.

Responsibilities

Design and deliver an engaging, practical finance training session for non-finance CEOs, tailored to conservation NGOs operating in Africa. The topics they have suggested they would like to cover include:

• Understanding basic financial statements and what they mean for organizational health
• Budgeting and how to effectively review and monitor budgets
• How to manage and engage with a CFO or finance manager without having a technical accounting background
• Key questions CEOs should be asking their finance teams
• Identifying red flags and early warning signs of financial mismanagement
• Practical approaches to fraud prevention and detection, including essential internal controls
• Financial governance and the role of the CEO in ensuring accountability
• Donor compliance and managing restricted funds
• Cash flow management and financial sustainability
• Using financial information to support strategic decision-making

Requirements

• Proven experience designing and delivering finance training for non-finance audiences, ideally at a senior leadership level
• Strong understanding of financial management in NGOs, including donor compliance, restricted funding and financial governance
• Familiarity with the operating context of conservation NGOs in Africa and the associated funding landscape
• Ability to translate technical financial concepts into clear, practical and engaging content
• Strong facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse and senior audiences.

Working arrangements

• The training will take place in Namibia in July 2026.
• The finance session will be approximately 3 hours in duration, as part of a one-day CEO training programme
• Flights, accommodation (for the duration of the assignment) and visa costs will be covered
• Opportunity to extend travel at own cost following the event

We are recruiting for a compassionate Instructor to support the delivery of our specialist assistance dog programmes. This role is key to ensuring our clients and their dogs receive high-quality, tailored training, enabling strong partnerships that transform lives.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a passionate and growing organisation committed to supporting people with a range of disabilities. You will deliver one-to-one training for clients and their dogs, covering task work, obedience, and practical skills, as well as providing structured guidance to help build confident and successful partnerships. The role involves a mix of home visits, community-based training, and nationwide travel, including occasional overnight stays.

Working both independently and as part of a wider team, you will support clients throughout their journey, from initial training through to post-graduation follow-ups, ensuring ongoing progress and wellbeing. You will also respond to behavioural enquiries, deliver training classes and presentations, and contribute to the smooth running of the training department through administration and reporting.

To succeed, you will have strong experience in dog training and behaviour, alongside the ability to build supportive, professional relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. You will be confident working alone in varied environments, adaptable in your approach, and comfortable delivering training to individuals and groups. A commitment to excellent communication, organisation, and compassionate support is essential.

We are recruiting a dedicated Senior Client Services Coordinator to deliver our assistance dog programmes, providing tailored, one-to-one training & support to our clients and their dogs. This includes task work, obedience, and building strong partnerships through home visits, community sessions, and nationwide travel.

The Senior Client Services Coordinator will oversee the client services team, ensuring high-quality support across assessments, waitlists, aftercare, and partnerships. Responsibilities include training new staff, supporting recruitment, managing client progress and behavioural concerns, and contributing to team planning and performance.

The role requires strong experience in dog training and behaviour, excellent communication skills, and the ability to make informed decisions in a fast-paced environment. Flexibility is essential, including some evenings, weekends, and travel.

Development Manager (Individual Giving & Major Donors)

David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation | Shalford, Surrey (Hybrid)
Salary: £40,000–£45,000, dependant on experience

David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) is seeking an experienced and relationship‑driven Development Manager to lead our individual giving and major donor fundraising. This is a pivotal role within a conservation charity dedicated to protecting endangered species across Africa and Asia.

As our Development Manager, you will:

• Shape and deliver strategies for major donors, mid‑level giving, regular giving, adoption programmes and campaign‑led appeals
• Cultivate and steward high‑value donors through personalised engagement
• Oversee donor journeys and ensure an exceptional supporter experience
• Provide strategic leadership for key fundraising events
• Work closely with colleagues across Conservation, Education, Art, Marketing and Finance
• Line manage a Development Executive and play a key role in developing a coordinated, high‑performing fundraising team

We’re looking for someone with:
✔ Proven success in major donor / high‑value individual fundraising
✔ Strong relationship‑building and communication skills
✔ Experience developing donor journeys and direct marketing appeals
✔ Confidence working with senior stakeholders
✔ Passion for wildlife conservation and DSWF’s mission

Why join us?
You’ll be part of a small, committed team making a tangible impact on global wildlife protection. We have invested over £14 million into frontline conservation since 1984 and continue to drive meaningful change through anti-wildlife crime initiatives, education and the power of art.

Role details:

• Hybrid (home + 2 days/week in Shalford, Surrey)
• Full time, 35 hrs/week
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays + extra days at Christmas
• Pension + Employee Assistance Programme
• Start date: As soon as possible

How to apply:
Send your CV and a cover letter (no longer than two pages) by email by midday, Monday 20th April.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in conservation and the arts.

This is a full‑time role supporting our specialist animal fostering service, which enables victim‑survivors of domestic abuse to leave abusive relationships by ensuring their much‑loved animals are safe and well cared for.

The focus of this role is to work as part of a dedicated team to maintain the highest standards of animal welfare across a wide range of species. Equally central is providing exceptional support to victim-survivors of domestic abuse, alongside volunteers and colleagues across human and animal health and welfare services.

Your work will directly help individuals and families in crisis, ensuring both they and their animals receive the safety, care, and compassion they deserve.

Applicants must have:

• An animal welfare qualification (minimum Level 3)
• Significant knowledge and proven competence in assessing and handling dogs, cats, and other species in a rescue or similar environment
• A commitment to high standards of animal welfare
• The ability to support victim‑survivors in a professional, empathetic, and trauma‑informed way
• Strong teamwork, communication, and record‑keeping skills