An exciting and rare opportunity has become available for an experienced people manager to work at our Bedfordshire Centre, based in Aspley Guise near Milton Keynes. We are looking for a new leader to help guide the future growth and potential development of the site, as the charity strives to give every animal the best chance of finding a new home.
Position: Centre Operations Manager
Location: Bedfordshire, Glebe Farm, Salford Rd, MK17 8HZ
Salary: From £34,944 - £39,944 per annum depending on experience
Hours: 40 hours per week, including alternate weekends, Permanent
Benefits: 33 days annual leave (inclusive of the eight bank holidays), Contributory pension scheme, Group Life Assurance, Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
Closing date: 17th June 2026
About the role:
As Centre Manager you will be responsible for all operational activities related to the running of the site, ensuring the ongoing welfare and safe rehoming journey for the animals in your care. You will also be expected to provide effective leadership to the Centres’ employees and volunteers, ensuring high levels of performance and a culture of excellent customer service at all times.
About you:
The successful candidate will have a strong record of management, preferably within the animal welfare sector but more importantly, with the proven ability to lead and develop teams. The ability to work with and relate to a diverse range of employees, volunteers and supporters and the general public is essential.
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
- Proven examples of successfully managing and developing large teams
- Excellent communication skills
- Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
- A full UK driving License
- An understanding of the animal welfare sector is desirable.
More about us:
At the National Animal Welfare Trust, we never stop caring for our animals and people. Operating four rehoming centres, we are committed to improving the lives of UK’s pets, providing love and care in helping them find a new home. Join our team and help to shine a light for brighter futures for every pet.
If you feel you have the right skills to be a successful Centre Operations Manager at our Bedfordshire Centre, please send your CV with your cover letter to r.mitchell@nawt.org.uk or use the following link to apply:
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 see the attached document for a full description of the Duties and Responsibilities.
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.