Job Description

Crossing Cottage Greyhound Sanctuary is a small, independent charity that was established over 25 years ago, to ensure the long-term welfare of greyhounds after retirement from racing.

We are currently looking for a dedicated, experienced and passionate person to lead our Kennel Team.

THE ROLE

The Kennel Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Crossing Cottage Greyhound Sanctuary. Working in partnership with the Strategy, Finance and Marketing Manager (SF&MM) this role ensures the welfare of all greyhounds, incorporating the effective delivery of operational standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership & Welfare

Lead in the management of kennel operations:

Take responsibility for day to day activities; you will adhere to, and guide staff on, appropriate standards and established policies and procedures across all key areas of greyhound operations, ensuring consistency in the quality of the greyhound journey. Ensure the welfare, health and behavioural needs of every greyhound are met to a high standard Ensure the site is managed to a high standard of presentation and that statutory legislation (e.g. H&S) is rigorously adhered to, keeping staff, volunteers, public and the greyhounds safe. Contribute to policy development and ensure compliance with all standards and procedures

Team Leadership, Management & Development

The KOM is responsible for managing the kennel yard staff.

Support, coach and guide staff and volunteers at CCGS in areas of their work where they need a level of greyhound and/or welfare knowledge, and provide training, guidance and assistance to ensure all tasks are carried out by the team consistently and in line with policies and procedures. Develop and deliver induction and training programmes to ensure consistent, high-quality care. Identify staff strengths and task/support appropriately. Foster and support staff development, knowledge and skills enhancements. Manage promptly any staff human resource matters in accordance with the charity's policies and procedures, safeguarding, grievance, whistleblowing, bullying, sexual harassment etc. Set expectations of greyhound care and motivate the team towards excellence. Maintain a positive and inclusive working culture.

Operational Delivery

Produce monthly rotas for the kennel staff in good time, ensuring sufficient shift coverage is provided within budget. Manage operational resources effectively by ensuring all staffing and hound welfare needs are met in accordance to agreed standards, while respecting the limited financial resources of the charity. Report any concerns regarding achievement to the SF&MM & Trustees accordingly. Monitor operational product stock levels and report these to the SF&MM in good time to facilitate replenishment e.g. cleaning products, waste management, food & medications, ensuring a constant supply without overstocking. Oversee facility presentation, site security and statutory health & safety compliance. Conduct regular inspections of all buildings and facilities, including signs and notices, and report repairs/maintenance required. Take responsibility for ensuring that all greyhounds are assessed between 7-14 days of arrival at CCGS, following the documented assessment procedure, and update the assessments as required. Thereafter, provide continuous assessment for any greyhound at CCGS and ensure provision of accurate homing descriptions for the SF&MM. Report all concerns. Implementation of routine claw and dental maintenance for all dogs in the kennels

Collaboration & Reporting

Work in partnership with the S,F&MM to ensure operational delivery aligns with CCGS strategic objectives. Escalate matters requiring Trustee input in collaboration with the SF&MM Contribute to fundraising and community engagement opportunities to maximise income and impact.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Commitment to greyhound welfare and deep knowledge of sighthound needs. Experience of leading and motivating diverse teams. Strong organisational, problem-solving and decision-making skills. Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage tactfully and effectively with staff, volunteers and members of the public, in all forms of communication. Physically fit, able to work outdoors in all conditions. Full driving licence.
Desirable:

Previous experience of working for an animal charity in either a paid or voluntary capacity Sound understanding of dog behaviour and canine body language Other relevant experience/qualifications e.g. disease prevention and sanitation, canine management, animal handling, animal welfare, nutrition, animal behaviour, first aid.

Security

Applicants must provide the contact details of referees, to include the most recent employer. Successful applicants must undergo a basic DBS check if a current one is not already available
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From 13.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 20 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking
Application question(s):

Are you available to work flexible hours between 7am-7pm? Do you have an understanding of the unique needs of retired racing greyhounds?
Experience:

team management: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person