About Us | Ko wai tatou: 

New Zealand Anti-Vivisection Society (NZAVS) is Aotearoa’s only charity 100% dedicated to stopping animals from being used in experimentation. Our mission is to end animal experimentation and the harmful use of animals for research, testing and teaching in Aotearoa. We do so by advocating, lobbying, collaborating and educating the public, government and the animal science and research industries. We’re looking for a dedicated and passionate animal rights activist to guide our small charity to achieve our vision of safe, ethical animal-free research methods.

For more information about NZAVS, visit our website: https://www.nzavs.org.nz/

Position Purpose | Mō tēnei tūranga mahi: 

We’re looking for a highly motivated animal advocacy champion to take on the role of Executive Officer.

The Executive Officer reports directly to the NZAVS Board. You’ll be responsible for the day-to-day management and leadership of the charity, including implementing operational plans, providing direction to our knowledgeable team, and achieving strategic goals. You’ll build on the already established policy and networks to take NZAVS into 2025 and beyond. Use your leadership skills to support our wonderful staff and volunteers to promote the cause and grow the organisation. You’ll be working with partners in animal welfare and related organisations and educating the media to advance NZAVS’ mission. You’ll also nurture and expand our valued donor base to ensure the financial and operational sustainability of NZAVS. 

Our core values are of course around preventing harm to animals and is ultimately the key focus of our mahi. Our ideal candidate would preferably, as far as is possible and practicable, uphold these values in all aspects of their life.

NZAVS presently operates on a 'work from home' basis, with staff currently in Christchurch and Board members spread around Aotearoa, so we are inviting applications from the entire country. You must be willing to travel as required and work full time hours.  

Key Responsibilities | He aha tāu e mahi ana: 

• Manage the daily operations of the organisation, including managing budgets, overseeing staff, leading public relations, and supporting fundraising efforts. 
• Develop and implement the strategic plan in alignment with NZAVS’ values and core beliefs. 
• Leading legislative and policy reform projects and overseeing research projects. 
• Ensure the financial and operational sustainability of the organisation alongside the Board. 
• Report to the Board monthly and collaborate regularly, keeping the Board informed about successes and organisational risks. 
• Positively represent NZAVS to external stakeholders and manage networking relationships. 

What We’re Looking For | Ko ngā mea ka hiahiatia e koe kia angitū te haere: 

• A passion for, and a wide understanding of animal protection issues or the animal science and research industry is essential
• Strong leadership skills with proven staff management experience, risk assessment and decision-making. 
• Extensive operational management experience with demonstrated abilities in the preparation of organisational and project budgets and handling day to day financial transactions. 
• Outstanding communication and networking capabilities. 
• A strong background in database and website management, social media fundraising and campaign management is essential. 
• Experience working with volunteers in an NGO environment and reporting to a Board. 
• A strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
• Experience in Microsoft Office, Dropbox, Xero and other commonly used software packages.

A more detailed job description is attached.

Apply now | Tono ināianei

If you’re interested, please click Apply Now.

Please also feel free to email [email protected]  using the subject line: Executive Officer - New Zealand / Remote / Work from Home enquiry via EthicalJobs to ask any questions you may have about the role or NZAVS.

Please note we are actively recruiting for this position and may contact shortlisted candidates prior to the published closing date, so early applications are encouraged.

Salary Range: $80,000 - $100,000 pa (NZD). Appointment within this range will be based on skills and experience.