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 to lead our Nelson Centre.

This is a permanent, full-time role (40 hours), typically Monday to Friday however some flexibility required due to the nature of this role and operational needs.

You will oversee all aspects of Centre operations, including leading, recruiting, mentoring and supporting staff and volunteers, fostering a positive and high-performing culture and delivering exceptional animal care and welfare outcomes.

You will have operational, financial, and compliance management responsibility of the site, ensuring efficiency and sustainability in everything we do. You will engage with community and stakeholders 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.

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-moving environment.
• Experience managing 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

For more information click the apply now button and that will take you to our careers site. On our careers site you can click here for more about the impressive work we do and the impact we have and click here for the job description.

Applications for this role may be reviewed as they are received so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible!

We have a diverse, inclusive and values driven culture at SPCA. We value a diverse work environment because teams are stronger with different perspectives and experiences, so we welcome people from all walks of life to apply.

All applicants must possess the legal right to work in New Zealand, either as a New Zealand or Australian Citizen or by holding a valid working visa.

Simply click Apply and complete our simple online application process*.  Please contact recruitment@spca.nz if you have any additional questions.

*Only applications submitted through the official process will be considered.