Rehoming Centre Manager

Do you thrive in a busy, purpose-led environment where no two days are the same?

At Dogs Trust, we are looking for a natural leader with a passion for animal welfare, excellent people skills, and the drive to make a real difference.

Everything we do is focused on giving dogs the second chances they deserve. As our Rehoming Centre Manager, you’ll lead a dedicated team, ensuring the highest standards of care, welfare, and rehoming practice. You’ll combine strategic thinking, operational know-how, and people leadership to create a positive, high-performing culture - helping dogs and people find each other, every day.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of our busy Rehoming Centre, ensuring the highest standards of welfare, care, and rehoming practice in line with Dogs Trust’s standards and procedures
• Provide strong leadership to the team, supporting and developing Assistant Managers and their teams through clear communication, coaching, and performance management
• Oversee recruitment, staff appraisals, and team wellbeing - fostering a positive, collaborative working environment where people thrive
• Manage rotas to ensure adequate cover and continuity of care, including out-of-hours planning
• Oversee centre budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and resources used effectively
• Collaborate with colleagues across all teams to maximise outcomes for the dogs in our care
• Support the delivery of operational KPIs and OKRs, driving continuous improvement and innovation
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, data protection, and organisational policies
• Lead on internal and external reporting, sharing key updates and insights with senior management
• Represent Dogs Trust with professionalism in dealing with the public, media, stakeholders, and VIP visitor
• Maintain responsibility for the upkeep, security, and maintenance of the Rehoming Centre facilities

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven experience in successfully leading and developing large teams in a fast-paced, operational environment
• A strong track record in recruitment, staff development, and performance management
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with confidence handling sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy
• Strong financial acumen, including budget setting, monitoring, and managing expenditure
• Experience of working with health & safety policies and procedures in a practical setting
• Confident using Microsoft Office and other business systems for reporting and day-to-day operations
• A resilient, solutions-focused attitude with sound judgement and decision-making skills
• A genuine interest in dogs, animal welfare and the aims of Dogs Trust

Desirable:

• Knowledge of dog welfare and experience handling a variety of breeds and behavioural traits
• Previous experience in a kennel, animal welfare, or rehoming environment
• Experience in project management

Why Join Us?

• A leadership role where you’ll make a meaningful difference every day
• The opportunity to shape and inspire a passionate, high-performing team
• A varied and rewarding role where you’ll combine strategic thinking with operational excellence
• The chance to contribute to one of Ireland’s most respected animal welfare charities

Ready to make a difference with your skills and compassion?

How to apply

To apply for this position, please send your CV and Cover letter by email to our recruitment team.

Dogs Trust Ireland CLG is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Closing date for application is Monday, 4th August