An Opportunity to Lead and Make a Real Difference.
Assisi Animal Sanctuary is seeking an accomplished Chief Executive to lead the next stage of its development.
Established in 1997, Assisi is an independent Northern Ireland charity providing rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming services for companion animals, alongside community outreach, education and animal welfare advocacy.
As we approach our 30th anniversary in 2027, we are looking for an experienced, commercially astute and values-driven leader who can realise the charity’s significant potential. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting difference to the lives of companion animals and the families who care for them across Northern Ireland.
The Opportunity
This is a substantial executive appointment offering the autonomy to shape organisational priorities, strengthen financial and commercial performance, develop a high-performing leadership team and pursue new opportunities for growth. Working with an experienced Board of Trustees, the successful candidate will lead an established organisation with committed employees, volunteers and supporters. A significant opportunity lies in the potential development of a new sanctuary, requiring executive leadership across capital fundraising, property development, project co-ordination and operational relocation.
Essential Experience
Applicants must demonstrate:
A minimum of five years’ senior executive leadership experience, with substantial organisational or functional accountability.
Experience of managing annual budgets exceeding £500,000, including financial planning, performance monitoring and accountability.
Experience of leading teams of at least 20 employees, including managing managers, staff development and performance management.
Proven ability to lead organisational change, strengthen performance and deliver measurable results.
Strong commercial judgement, strategic planning skills and experience of working within formal governance structures.
Experience of overseeing complex projects, developing partnerships and identifying opportunities for sustainable income growth.
A genuine commitment to animal welfare, compassionate leadership and Assisi’s charitable purpose.
Previous Chief Executive experience is particularly welcome, although applications from accomplished Directors and senior executives who meet these requirements will also be considered. Direct experience in animal welfare is not essential. We are seeking a leader who brings resilience, creativity, commercial ambition and the confidence to make decisions and develop the organisation as it enters an exciting new phase in its development.
How to Apply
To request the full Candidate Information Pack, including the job description, person specification and application requirements, please contact: Veronica Morris, Interim Chief Executive
Confidential enquiries are welcome.
Completed applications must be received by 12 noon on Wednesday 2 December 2026.
Interviews are planned for the week commencing 7 December 2026.
Assisi Animal Sanctuary is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds.
Skills:income generation Leadership/Management Skills financial acumen Commercial awareness animal welfare values driven communications
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