Executive Manager - Donkey Sanctuary

About the role

The Executive Manager is the senior operational leader and primary visionary voice of Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary. The role leads the organisation within the strategy, policies, budget and delegated authority approved by the Board, and is accountable for achieving the mission effectively, responsibly and sustainably. The EM leads through the Management Committee, sets direction, coordinates the committee's work, develops managers and monitors performance, without managing operations directly.

Key responsibilities

• Keep donkey welfare central to decision-making and maintain high standards of care
• Lead the strategic plan, organisational development and the ambition to become a Centre of Excellence in donkey welfare
• Lead, support and develop the Management Committee and foster a collaborative, accountable culture
• Provide strategic oversight of financial planning, budgeting, risk management and resource allocation
• Lead fundraising strategy, diversify income streams and strengthen relationships with donors, funders and corporate partners
• Provide strategic leadership for outreach, education and advocacy programmes
• Maintain governance, regulatory compliance and risk management, and support the Board through transparent reporting
• Oversee organisational effectiveness, systems, infrastructure and operational standards

Required profile

• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent senior leadership experience
• Substantial senior leadership or management experience, including leading an organisation or significant function through strategic development
• Demonstrated experience leading, developing and managing a management team
• Experience in strategic planning, implementation and organisational development
• Experience working with a Board or equivalent governance structure
• Genuine commitment to animal welfare and willingness to learn about donkey welfare
• Ability and willingness to work primarily on-site in McGregor, Western Cape
• Effective communication in at least two South African languages; Afrikaans and Xhosa knowledge is advantageous
• Experience in the nonprofit, animal welfare, conservation, community development or related sectors is advantageous

Required skills

• Strategic planning and implementation
• Budgeting, financial oversight and management reporting
• Fundraising, donor development and resource mobilisation
• Stakeholder engagement, relationship management and communication