Executive Manager

Key Responsibilities

Donkey Welfare and Mission

• Ensure that donkey welfare remains central to organisational decision-making, maintaining high standards of care and advancing the Sanctuary's mission.

Visionary and Strategic Leadership

• Lead the implementation of the organisation's strategic plan, drive organisational development and advance EDS's ambition to become a recognised Centre of Excellence in donkey welfare.

People, Culture and Organisational Capacity

• Lead, support and develop the Management Committee, fostering a collaborative, accountable and effective organisational culture.

Financial Stewardship and Sustainability

• Provide strategic oversight of financial planning, budgeting, risk management and resource allocation to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Fundraising and Resource Mobilisation

• Lead fundraising strategy, diversify income streams and strengthen relationships with donors, funders and corporate partners.

Centre of Excellence: Outreach, Advocacy and Sector Engagement

• Provide strategic leadership for outreach, education and advocacy programmes, building partnerships and strengthening EDS's influence within the animal welfare sector.

Governance, Compliance and Board Relations

• Maintain effective governance, regulatory compliance and risk management while supporting the Board through transparent reporting and sound organisational leadership.

Operations, Infrastructure and Organisational Systems

• Oversee organisational effectiveness through the Management Committee, ensuring appropriate systems, infrastructure and operational standards are maintained.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification or demonstrably equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Substantial senior leadership or management experience, including leading an organisation or significant function through strategic development.
• Proven ability to provide visionary leadership and translate organisational strategy into measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience in leading, developing and managing a management team.
• Experience in strategic planning, implementation and organisational development.
• Sound financial management capabilities, including budgeting, financial oversight and management reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor development or resource mobilisation.
• Experience working effectively with a Board or equivalent governance structure.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, relationship management and communication skills.
• A genuine commitment to animal welfare and willingness to develop an understanding of donkey welfare.
• Experience in the nonprofit, animal welfare, conservation, community development or related sectors is advantageous.
• Strong leadership qualities, including integrity, accountability, sound judgement, collaboration and effective delegation.
• Resilience, adaptability and the ability to work effectively in a small organisation.
• Ability and willingness to work primarily on-site in McGregor, Western Cape.
• Effective communication skills in at least two South African languages. Knowledge of Afrikaans and Xhosa would be advantageous.
• Knowledge and experience with donkeys will be an added advantage.

Monday30th November 2026