ABOUT US
SPCA New Zealand is one of New Zealand’s most trusted animal welfare organisations, protecting over 30,000 animals every year. Through rescue, rehabilitation, sheltering, and advocacy, we work to improve the lives of animals across the country. Our Animal Services teams operate 28 Centres nationwide, from Kerikeri to Invercargill, delivering hands-on care, fostering community connection, and supporting SPCA’s mission every day.

ABOUT THE ROLE
We have an exciting opportunity for a Centre Manager at our Timaru Centre.
This is a permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week), typically Monday to Friday. Exact days/hours may vary depending on operational needs.

As Centre Manager, you will oversee all aspects of Centre operations, including:

• Leadership of staff and volunteers, fostering a positive and high-performing culture.
• Delivery of exceptional animal care and welfare outcomes.
• Operational, financial, and compliance management, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
• Community and stakeholder engagement to strengthen SPCA’s presence and impact.

This is a challenging and rewarding role. You will see both the best and the most difficult situations for animals, requiring resilience, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose. In return, you will make a real and lasting difference in the lives of animals and the people who care for them.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspire, motivate, and develop teams; set strategic direction and operational plans; foster inclusivity and accountability.
• Manage budgets, monitor operational costs, and implement cost-effective strategies while maintaining service quality.
• Recruit, mentor, and support staff and volunteers; lead performance evaluations, training, and succession planning.
• Ensure all animals receive high-quality care, enrichment, and handling; maintain accurate records and compliance with national standards.
• Drive efficient workflows, process improvements, and compliance with SPCA policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Build relationships with donors, volunteers, and local stakeholders; represent SPCA in community events and media.
• Oversee Health & Safety, emergency protocols, and operational risk mitigation.
• Cultivate and support a robust volunteer and foster community aligned with Centre goals.
• Monitor KPIs, report on Centre performance, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

ABOUT YOU
You are a resilient, strategic, and inspiring leader with a deep passion for animal welfare. You thrive in a dynamic, high-pressure environment and enjoy motivating teams to achieve outstanding results.

Skills & Experience

• Proven leadership and people management experience, ideally in a complex or fast-changing environment.
• Experience managing large operations, budgets, and performance metrics.
• Strong financial acumen and operational planning skills.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and community relationship skills.
• Knowledge of compliance frameworks, Health & Safety, and animal welfare standards.
• Ability to problem-solve, make data-driven decisions, and implement continuous improvements.
• High levels of empathy, resilience, and ethical standards.

SPCA PURRRKS
At SPCA, working with purpose is just the beginning. Some of the benefits of joining our team include:

• Leading a passionate, purpose-driven team committed to animal welfare.
• The privilege of improving the lives of animals every day.
• Enjoy a paid day off for your Birthday, it’s our way of celebrating you! 
• A workplace culture where collaboration, development and kindness are key. 
• Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers. 
• Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support. 

HOW TO APPLY
Click Apply Now to be directed to our SPCA careers portal. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply promptly.

We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All candidates must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.