RSPCA is Australia’s best known and most respected animal welfare organisation, working tirelessly to prevent animal cruelty, caring for over 9,000 animals in South Australia every year.

We are animal protectors, carers and guardians and bring solace to the abandoned, surrendered and injured. We offer shelter, education, medical attention and love to help animals in need find loving forever homes. We advocate for the humane treatment of all living creatures and we are the only charity empowered by State Parliament to prosecute perpetrators of animal cruelty and neglect. 

We are seeking an exceptional people leader who has achieved outstanding results and is passionate about animal welfare.

This newly created role calls for an extraordinary leader to guide the Inspectorate and Rescue team in the wonderful work they do across South Australia. You will lead the teams to improve animal welfare and compliance across South Australia, while ensuring that the Inspectorate department continues to meet legal and statutory requirements.

This is a full-time position, initially based at our Head Office in Stepney, then relocating to Glenthorne Farm once our new Animal Care Centre build in completed in first half of 2024. 

In your role you will: 

• Provide positive motivational leadership in the context of team building to all staff and volunteers in the Inspectorate, driving a team-focused culture.
• Develop and implement the Inspectorate department strategic plan and associated projects in line with the organisational strategic plan.
• Ensure delivery and continuous improvement of customer-focused services through the application of sound principles, through pro-active leadership and providing mentoring and support of Inspectorate staff.
• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including the PIRSA, DEW and external rescue groups. 
• Ensure that the Inspectorate meets legal and statutory requirements in all aspects of operations, implements agreements, procedures and guidelines and that required changes to operations and services are effectively planned and implemented.
• Complete media in relation to Inspectorate activities as required, including interviews regarding specific animal cruelty investigations

The successful candidate will possess the following:

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing diverse teams.
• Demonstrated experience in building a high performing, high functioning culture.
• Strong verbal communication, influencing and interpersonal skills.
• An understanding of investigations, court process, laws of evidence and the ability to interpret legislation.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, grow and develop talent.
• Ability to develop and maintain good internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Experience in engaging others and negotiating to achieve win-win outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience in financial and operational management. 
• Sound knowledge of and the capability to implement and manage WHS strategies.
• Tertiary qualifications in management, project management, or business. 
• Alignment and adherence to the RSPCA SA mission, vision and values.
• Genuine interest in animal welfare and the objectives of RSPCA.
• Ability to perform physical duties including manual handling, and an ability to handle a minimum weight of 10 kilos.

Culture

You will be part of an organisation which is: 

• Energised by an incredible purpose and passion to achieve the best outcomes for animals everywhere.
• An environment that will help you thrive, grow and be a better you.
• Exceptional talent, teamwork and teams is the most important thing to us.

Benefits

A competitive remuneration package is on offer, dependent on skills, knowledge, experience and performance.  Working at RSPCA SA also offers unique benefits including the opportunity to lead an outstanding team of individuals with the opportunity to coach and see others grow and develop in their roles.

You will also receive:

• 40% discount off Royal Canin pet food.
• At-cost microchipping, vaccinations and cheap prescription medication for owned pets.
• Discount on RSPCA Op Shop purchases.
• Discount adoptions from RSPCA  Animal Care Centres.
• On site car parking. 

For a confidential conversation about this role, please call Andrea Lewis, Head of Animal Welfare on 08 8205 8031. 

A position description is attached.