Are you passionate about equine welfare and ready to lead the UK operations of one of the world’s most respected equine charities? World Horse Welfare, a leading international horse charity founded in 1927, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of UK to drive our mission to improve the lives of horses across the UK and beyond.

At World Horse Welfare, we are dedicated to promoting equine welfare through hands-on care, research, education, and advocacy. With a compassionate, practical, and evidence-based approach, we support horses in need, in sport and leisure, and those used in work and production worldwide. Our charity operates four Rescue & Rehoming Centres in Britain and manages the UK’s largest equine rehoming scheme, caring for over 2,200 horses in approved homes. Globally, we work in partnership with communities across 20 countries to improve the welfare of working horses, collaborating with governments, veterinarians, farriers, and other service providers.

The Role:

As Director of UK, you will be responsible for leading our UK welfare function, encompassing a central Head Office team, our four Rescue & Rehoming Centres, and a nationwide network of Field Officers. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will work closely with other members of the Senior Management Team to further our strategic goals and ensure a joined-up approach across all aspects of the charity’s work. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and motivating the UK team to ensure effective rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of equines.
• Overseeing operations at our Rescue & Rehoming Centres and ensuring the best welfare outcomes for all horses in our care.
• Embedding a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and collaboration across the charity.
•  Acting as Health & Safety Officer, ensuring compliance and promoting a positive safety culture across the organisation.
• Leading on research, education, and influencing, working with partners to promote equine welfare standards and policies.
• Managing relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, horse sport regulators, and other equine welfare organisations.

About You:

The ideal candidate will have a clear commitment to World Horse Welfare’s vision, values, and objectives. You will have in-depth knowledge of the equestrian world. You will be a confident communicator, able to manage remote teams, and work with diverse stakeholders. Additionally, you will have:

• A proven track record in running businesses, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• A self-motivated, results-driven approach, with a confident and outgoing personality.
• The ability to travel regularly across the UK to meet the demands of the role.

Desirable Qualifications:

• RCVS-recognised veterinary qualification
• Equestrian Coaching Certificate – Level 3
• Knowledge of equine welfare science and/or learning theory

If you’re ready to lead World Horse Welfare’s UK operations and make a lasting impact on equine welfare, we want to hear from you. Apply now and help us shape the future of horse welfare.

For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners:

William Pringle

Partner, Head of Charity, Arts, Culture & Heritage Practice

Berwick Partners

+44 (0) 207 518 2635 / +44 (0) 7515 919 648

William.Pringle@berwickpartners.co.uk

Closing date for applications: Friday 18^th October 2024.