At a Glance
- Tasks: Build global partnerships and coordinate impactful engagement initiatives for animal welfare.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest international animal welfare charities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, competitive pension, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while working with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in stakeholder engagement required.
Engagement Officer These are exciting times for the charity, and we have an excellent opportunity for a highly proactive and professional team player with outstanding interpersonal skills to join the dedicated Public Affairs, Advocacy and Campaigns team, as an Engagement Officer Position: Engagement Officer Location: Devon/Hybrid, onsite attendance 2-3 days per quarter (fully remote/home working and flexible working patterns considered) Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week, 08.30-16.30, Monday-Friday Salary: £34,010 annum Contract: Permanent Closing Date: Sunday 16 August 2026. Please note this role may close earlier than advertised so apply as soon as possible. About the Role As Engagement Officer, you will be responsible for identifying and maintaining meaningful relationships with global stakeholders, including governmental, non-governmental and educational institutions. We are tackling the greatest threats working donkeys face locally and around the world, from the donkey skin trade to challenges working animals face in disasters. By coordinating engagement around sustainable development, wildlife crime, One Health and One Welfare agendas, you will enable the cohesion within the member groups that the Sanctuary are currently part of, and inspire new ways of working. Your principal duties and responsibilities will include: Building strong internal and external partnerships with global stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organisations to grow existing and build new relationships. Assisting in the coordination of coalition and alliance engagement opportunities globally, and leading on agreed coalition/alliance priorities such as meeting with partners and planning international events. Creating supporting materials and reports for stakeholders that advance the influencing agenda. Engaging with and supporting team processes around strategic planning for external events and activities. Managing the team horizon scanning, supporting timely and strategic engagement with relevant opportunities, events and stakeholder processes. Overseeing and collaborating with other team members to ensure key accreditations and reporting processes to support our access at institutional level are maintained. About You We are looking for someone who has excellent communication skills and is able to flex communication style depending on the audience and the message being delivered. You will also have: A proven record of organising events for international audiences. High level analytical skills combined with the ability to draft strategic responses. Strong organisation and coordination skills with the ability to multi-task and work with a number of conflicting demands and multiple deadlines. Previous experience of delivering positive stakeholder engagement activities; A good understanding of the challenges and opportunities when ensuring integration between internal departments and external partners. An understanding of animal welfare and/or international development with evidence of working on these topics. Benefits include: Competitive pension. 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 will each full year of service. Wellbeing team.Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes. Long service awards. Healthshield plan Free parking. Life assurance. Subsidised restaurant and shop. About the Organisation Join one of the UK’s largest international animal welfare charities, currently supporting projects in over 35 countries worldwide, working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued. The Charity is a Disability Confident Employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults) and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post. You may also have experience in areas such as Engagement, Impact and Engagement, Advocacy, Engagement Officer, Impact and Engagement Officer, Advocacy Officer, Engagement Coordinator. Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP
Engagement Officer employer: Donkey Sanctuary
As a leading international animal welfare charity, we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment in Devon, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of donkeys and mules worldwide. Our hybrid working model promotes flexibility, while our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our generous benefits package, including 31 days of holiday, a competitive pension, and access to wellness programmes. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and personal growth, ensuring you thrive both professionally and personally.
Contact Details:
Donkey Sanctuary Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engagement Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential stakeholders. Building those relationships can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for animal welfare! When you’re chatting with potential employers or stakeholders, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your experiences and insights on the challenges facing working animals – it’ll make you memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your approach. Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you; create them! Reach out to organisations you admire and express your interest in collaborating or supporting their initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the organisation, making it easier to tailor your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Engagement Officer
Communication Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Event Organisation
Analytical Skills
Strategic Planning
Coordination Skills
Multi-tasking
Understanding of Animal Welfare
Understanding of International Development
Flexibility
Report Writing
Partnership Building
Horizon Scanning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Engagement Officer role. Highlight any relevant experience in stakeholder engagement, event organisation, and communication skills to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about animal welfare and how your background aligns with our mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements rather than just duties. Did you successfully coordinate an international event? Share the impact it had and how it relates to the work we do at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know Your Stakeholders
Before the interview, research the key stakeholders relevant to the role. Understand their missions and how they align with the organisation's goals. This will help you demonstrate your ability to build meaningful relationships and show that you're genuinely interested in the work.
✨Showcase Your Event Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in organising online events for international audiences. Share specific examples of challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your organisational skills and ability to coordinate effectively under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role requires flexibility in working hours and occasional travel, be ready to discuss how you've managed similar demands in the past. Share instances where you successfully adapted to changing circumstances or priorities, showcasing your commitment to the role.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing complex topics like animal welfare and international development. Tailor your communication style to suit different audiences, as this is crucial for the Engagement Officer role. Confidence in your delivery can make a significant impact.
