Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is home to the largest collection of deer and antelope species in the UK, alongside important collections of waterfowl, cranes, pheasants and Great Bustards. Set within a 170-acre reserve in Norfolk, we are looking for an experienced and hands-on Head of Animal Collection to lead the development and management of our animal collection and animal care team.
This is a senior leadership role combining animal welfare, collection planning, conservation, people management and regulatory responsibility with practical involvement in the day-to-day life of the reserve.
The Role
You will be responsible for:
- Leading animal welfare and husbandry standards across the collection.
- Managing and developing the animal care team.
- Overseeing collection planning, breeding and population management.
- Coordinating veterinary care and preventative health programmes.
- Supporting conservation, research and education initiatives.
- Ensuring appropriate records, licensing and regulatory standards are maintained.
- Contributing to the future development of the collection and reserve.
- Remaining practically involved in animal and reserve operations where required.
About You
We are looking for someone with:
- Significant practical experience working with ungulates in a zoological, safari park, wildlife collection or similar environment.
- At least five years’ relevant professional animal-management experience, including supervisory or leadership responsibility.
- Strong animal welfare and husbandry knowledge.
- Experience leading and developing an animal care team.
- Proven expertise in data management and compliance legislation.
- A practical, positive and solutions-focused approach.
- Strong communication and organisational skills.
- Competence in IT packages and relevant technologies
- A full UK driving licence.
Experience with avian species, ZIMS, firearms, animal immobilisation and relevant land-management or machinery qualifications would be an advantage.
What We Offer
- £35,000–£45,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
- The opportunity to lead one of Europe’s most significant private deer and antelope collections.
- A varied senior role with real influence over the future direction of the collection and reserve.
- Ongoing professional development.
Please mention Jobs With Animals when applying for this role.