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- Tasks: Lead a respected animal welfare charity and drive strategic growth and community engagement.
- Company: RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter, dedicated to promoting kindness and preventing cruelty.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful leadership role, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of animal welfare in Devon and inspire a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience and a genuine passion for animal welfare.
- Other info: Join us in a pivotal moment of transformation and cultural renewal.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Exeter
Salary: circa £65,000
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Department: Office and Admin
Closing Date: 07/04/2026
Are you a visionary, values‑driven leader ready to shape the future of one of Devon’s most respected animal welfare charities? RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to guide us through an exciting period of growth, transformation and renewed strategic ambition. At Little Valley, our purpose is clear: to promote kindness, prevent cruelty, and provide outstanding welfare for the animals who rely on us. Our next Chief Executive Officer will inspire staff and volunteers, strengthen community partnerships, and lead with clarity, compassion and courage.
About the role
Our team is united by our compassion, collaboration, integrity, excellence and deep connection to our community – values that guide every decision we make. We are looking for a Chief Executive Officer who will champion these values in everything they do. We are in a pivotal moment of investment and cultural renewal, with major developments underway – including improved facilities, modernisation of systems, strategic income growth and strengthened community engagement. This is your opportunity to lead an ambitious and much‑loved charity into its next chapter.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with our mission, values and long‑term goals.
- Drive high‑quality, compassionate animal welfare services across all operational areas.
- Provide visible, empathetic leadership that supports a positive culture for staff and volunteers.
- Ensure strong financial stewardship, diversifying income and securing long‑term sustainability.
- Strengthen partnerships, community profile and external relationships across the region.
- Champion innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement at every level.
About You
You’ll bring proven senior leadership experience, exceptional communication skills, strong financial and governance capability, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead a complex and values‑driven organisation. Above all, you’ll bring a genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to ensuring values remain at the heart of everything we do. As our Chief Executive Officer, you will lead a dedicated team, steward an organisation with strong foundations, and be at the forefront of shaping a more compassionate future for animals across Devon. This is more than a leadership role – it’s a chance to create lasting impact.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining how your experience, leadership and values make you the right person to become our next Chief Executive Officer. We encourage applications from leaders who are motivated by purpose, committed to impact and inspired by the opportunity to shape the future of Little Valley Animal Shelter.
Chief Executive Officer in Exeter employer: Rspca Littlevalley
Contact Detail:
Rspca Littlevalley Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the animal welfare sector or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at interviews or networking events, let your love for animal welfare shine through. Share stories that highlight your commitment and values – it’ll make you memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! In interviews, be ready for scenario-based questions that test your leadership and decision-making skills. Think about how you would handle challenges in a values-driven organisation like RSPCA Little Valley – they want to see your thought process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you can tailor your submission to align perfectly with our mission and values, making it clear why you’re the ideal fit for the Chief Executive Officer role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for animal welfare shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can inspire others in our mission.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive strategic direction and community engagement.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit. Use it to connect your experience and values directly to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rspca Littlevalley
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter's mission and values. Understand how they promote kindness and prevent cruelty. This will not only help you align your answers with their goals but also show your genuine passion for animal welfare.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the charity's values. Think of specific examples where you've provided empathetic leadership or driven strategic change. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can inspire staff and volunteers.
✨Financial Acumen is Key
Given the role's focus on financial stewardship, be ready to talk about your experience in securing funding and managing budgets. Bring examples of how you've diversified income streams in previous roles, as this will resonate well with their need for long-term sustainability.
✨Engage with Community Partnerships
Highlight your experience in building community relationships. Prepare to discuss how you've strengthened partnerships in the past and how you plan to enhance the shelter's community profile. This shows that you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving their mission.