Rehoming Centre Manager

Team: Operations Location: Dublin Rehoming Centre Full-time - Temporary (Maternity Cover)

Do you thrive in a busy, purpose-led environment where no two days are the same?

At Dogs Trust, we are looking for a natural leader with a passion for animal welfare, excellent people skills, and the drive to make a real difference.

Everything we do is focused on giving dogs the second chances they deserve. As our Rehoming Centre Manager, you'll lead a dedicated team, ensuring the highest standards of care, welfare, and rehoming practice. You'll combine strategic thinking, operational know-how, and people leadership to create a positive, high-performing culture - helping dogs and people find each other, every day.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of our busy Rehoming Centre, ensuring the highest standards of welfare, care, and rehoming practice in line with Dogs Trust's standards and procedures
• Provide strong leadership to the team, supporting and developing Assistant Managers and their teams through clear communication, coaching, and performance management
• Oversee recruitment, staff appraisals, and team wellbeing - fostering a positive, collaborative working environment where people thrive
• Manage rotas to ensure adequate cover and continuity of care, including out-of-hours planning
• Oversee centre budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and resources used effectively
• Collaborate with colleagues across all teams to maximise outcomes for the dogs in our care
• Support the delivery of operational KPIs and OKRs, driving continuous improvement and innovation
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, data protection, and organisational policies
• Lead on internal and external reporting, sharing key updates and insights with senior management
• Represent Dogs Trust with professionalism in dealing with the public, media, stakeholders, and VIP visitor
• Maintain responsibility for the upkeep, security, and maintenance of the Rehoming Centre facilities

What We're Looking For:

• Proven experience in successfully leading and developing large teams in a fast-paced, operational environment
• A strong track record in recruitment, staff development, and performance management
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with confidence handling sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy
• Strong financial acumen, including budget setting, monitoring, and managing expenditure
• Experience of working with health & safety policies and procedures in a practical setting
• Confident using Microsoft Office and other business systems for reporting and day-to-day operations
• A resilient, solutions-focused attitude with sound judgement and decision-making skills
• A genuine interest in dogs, animal welfare and the aims of Dogs Trust
• Knowledge of dog welfare and experience handling a variety of breeds and behavioural traits
• Previous experience in a kennel, animal welfare, or rehoming environment
• Experience in project management

Why Join Us?

• A leadership role where you'll make a meaningful difference every day
• The opportunity to shape and inspire a passionate, high-performing team
• A varied and rewarding role where you'll combine strategic thinking with operational excellence
• The chance to contribute to one of Ireland's most respected animal welfare charities

Ready to make a difference with your skills and compassion?

Dogs Trust Ireland CLG is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Closing date for application is Monday, 4th August