Centre Operations Manager

Centre Operations Manager – Animal Welfare

We are seeking an experienced operational leader to oversee a busy animal welfare centre, leading teams, volunteers and day to day operations while helping improve outcomes for animals in care.

Position: Centre Operations Manager
Location: Bedfordshire, near Milton Keynes
Salary: £34,944 to £39,944 per annum depending on experience
Hours: 40 hours per week, including alternate weekends
Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 17th June 2026 - Please note we are accepting applications on a rolling basis and may close the recruitment process for this role prior to the deadline, so early applications are encouraged.

Benefits include: 33 days annual leave including bank holidays, contributory pension scheme, life assurance, employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.

About the Role

This is a rare opportunity to lead the operational delivery of a well-established animal welfare and rehoming centre. The role combines operational management, people leadership and community engagement, ensuring the smooth running of the site while maintaining the highest standards of animal care and customer service.

You will lead a team of employees and volunteers, oversee the welfare and rehoming journey of animals in care, manage site operations and help drive local fundraising and community awareness activities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing a large team of staff and volunteers
• Overseeing the intake, assessment and rehoming of animals
• Ensuring excellent standards of animal welfare at all times
• Managing operational performance across the site
• Supporting recruitment, training and staff development
• Managing health and safety compliance across the centre
• Overseeing site maintenance, equipment and external contractors
• Managing budgets and supporting income generation activities
• Building positive relationships with supporters, stakeholders and the local community
• Working collaboratively with internal teams and veterinary partners

About You

We are looking for a confident and compassionate manager with strong operational leadership experience and a genuine passion for team development and animal welfare.

You will bring:

• Experience managing and developing large teams
• Strong coaching and people management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Good organisational and time management abilities
• Experience managing budgets and operational processes
• Confidence using IT systems including Microsoft Office
• An understanding of health and safety responsibilities within a workplace environment
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced setting
• A full UK driving licence

Experience within animal welfare, rescue, veterinary, charity or customer focused operational environments would be highly beneficial.

About the Organisation

This organisation is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable animals through rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming services. With multiple centres across the UK, they are committed to providing high standards of care while helping pets find safe and loving new homes.

You will be joining a passionate and supportive team committed to making a meaningful difference every day.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Operations Manager, Charity Operations Manager, Site Manager, General Manager, Animal Welfare Manager, Visitor Operations Manager, Veterinary Practice Manager, Regional Operations Manager or Service Manager.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People. #INDNFP