At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead animal welfare and manage a passionate animal care team at a stunning wildlife reserve.
- Company: Watatunga Wildlife Reserve, home to the UK's largest deer and antelope collection.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and a chance to influence conservation efforts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to animal care and conservation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare and conservation in a beautiful 170-acre reserve.
- Qualifications: Significant experience with ungulates and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Head of Animal Collection (Norfolk)
Full Time | Permanent
Salary
£35,000–£45,000 per annum, 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.
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.
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.
TPBN1_UKTJ
Head of Animal Collection in London employer: Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead one of Europe’s most significant private collections of deer and antelope in a stunning 170-acre Norfolk setting. With a strong commitment to animal welfare and conservation, we foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and hands-on involvement in animal care, ensuring our team members can make a meaningful impact while growing their careers.
Contact Details:
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve Recruitment Team
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Animal Collection in London
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