Director of Education Programmes

Across the world, up to 200 million donkeys, horses, mules, camels and elephants do the jobs of trucks, tractors and taxis in some of the world’s poorest communities. For these hardworking animals, life is hard. Many work long hours, pulling backbreaking loads, often with painful harnessing, untreated wounds and inadequate water and nutrition.

Founded in 1923, SPANA is the leading charity for the world’s working animals. The charity is passionate about protecting and caring for working animals, with a network of hospitals and mobile clinics that provides a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of sick and injured animals each year.

Alongside its veterinary work, SPANA is also building a better future for working animals. From dedicated classrooms to the mobile exhibition units that reach remote communities, SPANA’s education programmes promote positive attitudes towards animals, build empathy and develop responsible behaviour.

The education programme currently operates in eight countries across Africa and the Middle East, with ambitious plans for expansion in the years ahead, including setting up projects in additional countries and, in 2016, building a new educational centre for Zimbabwe.

SPANA also trains local teachers to teach humane education lessons, and works with local authorities to incorporate animal welfare into national curricula. The charity also funds a small educational grants programme, supporting local organisations which share its aims.

This is a unique opportunity and SPANA is looking for an ambitious and driven individual to lead the next phase of its education strategy. Educated to degree level (or equivalent), the ideal candidate will be a diplomatic, pragmatic and socially skilled education professional, internationally-oriented and with the authority to drive change at all levels.

A belief in the value of humane education is essential, as is cultural awareness, proven leadership skills, conversational level French (or the willingness to learn) and a commitment to animal welfare and the values of SPANA.

The role is based in London, with frequent travel to countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

SPANA is committed to building a more compassionate future for working animals, one child at a time. If you share that vision and have the right mix of skills and experience, please find out more about this exciting role at www.spanadep.co.uk.

Alternatively, if you wish to have an informal conversation about the role, please contact Marlene Douglas-Hamilton on 020 7932 4247 or Daniel Wise on 020 7932 4223.

Closing date for applications: 9.00am, Monday 20 June 2016