Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
West Norfolk, UK
Closing date for applications is: 6th Nov 2026
Contact: Jo Panrucker (visitorexperience@watatunga.co.uk) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £35,000 - £45,000, depending on experience and qualifications
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is home to the largest collection of deer and antelope species in the UK, alongside important collections of waterfowl, cranes, pheasants and Great Bustards.
Set within a 170-acre reserve in Norfolk, we are looking for an experienced and hands‑on Head of Animal Collection to lead the development and management of our animal collection and animal care team.
This is a senior leadership role combining animal welfare, collection planning, conservation, people management and regulatory responsibility with practical involvement in the day-to-day life of the reserve.
The Role
You Will Be Responsible For
- Leading animal welfare and husbandry standards across the collection.
- Managing and developing the animal care team.
- Overseeing collection planning, breeding and population management.
- Coordinating veterinary care and preventative health programmes.
- Supporting conservation, research and education initiatives.
- Ensuring appropriate records, licensing and regulatory standards are maintained.
- Contributing to the future development of the collection and reserve.
- Remaining practically involved in animal and reserve operations where required.
About You
We are looking for someone with:
- Significant practical experience working with ungulates in a zoological, safari park, wildlife collection or similar environment
- At least five years’ relevant professional animal‑management experience, including supervisory or leadership responsibility
- Strong animal welfare and husbandry knowledge
- Experience leading and developing an animal care team.
- Proven expertise in data management and compliance legislation.
- A practical, positive and solutions‑focused approach.
- Strong communication and organisational skills.
- Competence in IT packages and relevant technologies
- A full UK driving licence.
Experience with avian species, ZIMS, firearms, animal immobilisation and relevant land‑management or machinery qualifications would be an advantage.
What We Offer
- £35,000–£45,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
- The opportunity to lead one of Europe’s most significant private deer and antelope collections.
- A varied senior role with real influence over the future direction of the collection and reserve.
- Ongoing professional development.
Learn more about Watatunga here: https://watatunga.co.uk/
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Head of Animal Collection employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Activate Learning is an exceptional employer that values the passion and dedication of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where teamwork and professional growth are at the forefront. Located in the picturesque Surrey countryside, employees benefit from a vibrant environment that fosters learning and development, alongside opportunities to engage with a diverse animal collection. With a commitment to high standards of animal welfare and education, Activate Learning provides a meaningful and rewarding career for those looking to make a difference in the animal industry.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
