Interim COO

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is a well-established Scottish animal welfare charity, supporting pets and their people since 1883. Through its mission - to find loving homes, protect existing ones, and run a loving Home - the organisation provides vital rehoming and outreach services, including one of the UK’s first dedicated pet foodbanks.

Following a recent restructure and the appointment of the previous Chief Operating Officer to the interim CEO role, the organisation is now seeking a confident and compassionate Interim Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead its internal operations through a short but crucial period of transition.

The Role

Reporting to the Interim CEO, the Interim COO will oversee the day-to-day running of the organisation. As a key member of the Executive Team, they will be responsible for managing the Home’s core operational areas — including people, animal welfare, facilities, and business administration — and for ensuring continuity, high performance, and a strong internal culture throughout the interim period.

The COO will directly line manage senior leaders, including the Head of People and Head of Animal Welfare and Operations, supporting them to deliver the Home’s strategic goals. With a clear focus on internal delivery, the COO will play a vital role in sustaining momentum following recent organisational change.

Key priorities will include:

• Leading and coordinating all internal operational activity to ensure smooth and effective delivery of services
• Supporting and developing senior managers across HR, animal welfare, facilities, and administration
• Embedding a high-performance culture aligned with the Home’s mission and values
• Managing organisational change with sensitivity and confidence
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety, employment law, and sector best practice
• Monitoring internal KPIs and driving continuous improvement across all teams
• Working closely with the Executive Team to maintain organisational stability
• Deputising for the CEO as required

The Candidate

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is open to candidates from a range of professional backgrounds. The successful candidate will be an experienced and values-led operational leader with a strong track record in managing complex internal operations and supporting teams through change.

They will bring a collaborative and supportive leadership style, along with excellent communication skills and sound judgement. They will be confident in managing people and performance at a senior level, while remaining closely connected to the day-to-day needs of a dynamic organisation.

A background in the third sector or animal welfare is not essential. What matters most is a commitment to the Home’s mission, strong operational leadership, and the ability to contribute to a positive, caring workplace culture.

The Opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the work of one of Scotland’s most cherished charities during a time of purposeful transition. The role offers a chance to make a meaningful, hands-on impact — supporting people, animals, and a dedicated staff team through steady and values-led leadership.

You can contact Cat Goodwin or Debbie Shields at Aspen People for a confidential discussion about the role on 0141 212 7555.

Closing date for applications: We are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis, so please apply at your earliest convenience to be considered.

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one document) via the apply button. If you are unable to combine your documents, then please email your cover letter to applications@aspenpeople.co.uk.

Offers of appointment are subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.