Centre Director - Dog and Cat Rescue

Centre Director - Dog and Cat Rescue

Lanta Animal Welfare (LAW)

Location: Koh Lanta, Krabi Province, Thailand

Start Date: April 2026 (flexible by agreement)

Role Overview

The Centre Director is the senior operational leader of Lanta Animal Welfare, responsible for the effective, ethical, and sustainable management of all day-to-day centre operations. This role provides strategic and operational leadership across animal welfare, people management, finance, facilities, and public engagement, ensuring LAW fulfils its mission while operating in line with Board-approved strategy, policies, and budget.

The Centre Director acts as the primary on-site representative of the organisation and plays a key role in shaping organisational culture, performance, and long-term impact.

Reporting & Governance

Reports to: Lanta Animal Welfare Board (Thai & US)

Authority: Full responsibility for day-to-day operational decision-making within Board-approved strategy, policies, and budget.

Direct Reports

• General Manager (Tours, Adoptions, Volunteers, Finance)
• Fundraising & Digital Marketing Manager
• Animal Care Manager
• Training & Behaviour Manager
• Maintenance Team Lead

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the implementation of LAW’s strategic plan, translating Board priorities into clear annual objectives and operational plans.
• Provide strong, values-driven leadership that fosters accountability, collaboration, and professional development.
• Establish and monitor departmental KPIs covering animal welfare outcomes, staffing, financial performance, and visitor experience.

People & Culture

• Recruit, onboard, manage, develop, and, where necessary, discipline or exit staff in accordance with Thai labour law and LAW policies.
• Support and empower staff and volunteers through clear expectations, regular feedback, training, and performance reviews.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture aligned with LAW’s values and Code of Conduct.
• Oversee staff scheduling, attendance, leave, payroll coordination, and internal communications.

Operations & Program Management

• Oversee all centre programs and services, including animal care, training and behaviour, adoptions, volunteer programs, tours, and fundraising.
• Work closely with the Clinic Director to manage shelter population levels and animal flow in line with welfare standards and capacity.
• Ensure consistent implementation of policies, SOPs, and best practices across all departments.
• Organise and chair weekly departmental meetings with clear agendas and follow-up actions.

Finance & Resource Management

• Operate the centre within the Board-approved annual budget and ensure sound financial controls.
• Review financial reports and inform the Board of financial performance, risks, or variances.
• Oversee daily donation handling, on-site income, and local donation box programs.
• Control and approve purchasing, asset management, and use of organisational resources.

Fundraising & External Relations

• In collaboration with the Board, create and implement long-term and project-based fundraising and income development plans.
• Represent LAW professionally with donors, partners, local communities, authorities, and other organisations.
• Support fundraising events, communications, and donor engagement activities as required.

Facilities, Risk & Compliance

• Oversee the maintenance, safety, and functionality of all facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with Thai labour law, immigration requirements, animal welfare regulations, and local authority obligations.
• Identify and manage operational, reputational, and safeguarding risks, including crisis response when required.
• Keep the Board informed of any issues that may impact LAW’s operations, reputation, or mission.

Skills, Abilities & Experience

Essential

• Strong commitment to the mission and values of Lanta Animal Welfare.
• Proven senior management experience, ideally within an NGO, nonprofit, or mission-driven organisation.
• Minimum 5 years’ managerial experience, including at least 3 years managing teams or departments.
• Minimum 10 years’ overall professional experience.
• Excellent written and spoken English (native or fluent).
• Strong leadership, organisational, administrative, and project management skills.
• Experience developing and managing budgets and financial oversight.
• Ability to make sound, ethical decisions in high-pressure and emotionally challenging environments.
• Confident communicator with the ability to engage staff, volunteers, visitors, donors, and external stakeholders.
• Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, email, basic reporting tools).
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, emergencies
• Willingness to relocate to and live on Koh Lanta, Thailand.
• Strong multicultural awareness and experience working in diverse teams.

Desirable

• Experience in animal welfare, shelter operations, or veterinary-adjacent environments.
• Experience working with Boards and international stakeholders.
• Experience Fundraising.
• Prior experience working in Southeast Asia or similar operational contexts.

Working Conditions

• Physically active role in a tropical, outdoor environment.
• Regular exposure to injured, sick, or distressed animals.
• Hands-on involvement with daily centre operations when required.

Employment Terms

• Working hours: 8 hours per day, 5 days per week, with flexibility for operational needs
• Holiday: 21 days per year
• Salary: TBD
• Probation: 6-month probation period with formal performance review

Lanta Animal Welfare is an equal opportunity employer committed to animal welfare excellence, ethical operations, and a respectful, inclusive workplace.

Website: www.lantaanimalwelfare.com

Please email cover letter and resume to md@lantaanimalwelfare.com