Job Title:
Puppy Programme Manager
Reporting to:
CEO
Location:
Dublin but will consider Munster for the right candidate
Purpose
The purpose of this role is to manage and develop the Puppy Programme including the team of Puppy Supervisors in both Munster and Dublin ensuring the smooth running of the programme with up to 100 puppies
Recruitment and retention of volunteers will be crucial to this role and also implementing best practice in order to drive high standards of puppies coming through the programme.
Duties & Responsibilities
Continuous development of the the puppy programme and elearning platform
Support the Puppy Supervisors in their role with canine behaviour and training solutions
Support the Puppy Supervisors ensuring sufficient volunteers are available to care for the pups and explore innovative options to deliver success in this area
Monitor the progress of pups during their time on the programme to ensure training milestones are met and plans are developed for pups requiring more support.
Recommending puppies for withdrawal from the programme
Selection of suitable puppies to move onto advanced training in line with Instructors training cycles
Liaising with vets over health issue puppies and reporting any ongoing issues Supervise up to 10 puppies on puppy scheme when nos are high
Ensuring supply of boarders and organising homes for holiday cover
Liaising with Breeding Manager to organise puppies that need to travel abroad
Monthly reports for the department and maintaining the database up to date with all relevant health information
Support the Fundraising Team with events and visits as required
Person Specific
Recognised dog trainer or canine behavioural qualification with proven track record of delivering key outputs
2 years practical experience working with dogs of all ages
Evidence of continued professional development to enhance knowledge and experience relevant to the role
Experience managing staff and volunteers
Ability to make critical decisions in challenging situations
Organised with excellent time management and multi-tasking skills. · Excellent verbal and written presentation/IT skills and communication skills. · Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Full clean driving licence is essential
Travel and overnights will be required and emergency cover at weekends
Equipment
In order to support you in the fulfilment of your role you will be provided with a van, laptop and mobile phone.
Training & Development
It is important for the department as a whole to continuously strive to improve its skills and effectiveness in the ever evolving best practices. An agreed training budget will be available to you annually for the department.
You may source appropriate training and development opportunities and/or undertake opportunities suggested by your line manager
All training must be agreed by your line manager, however you are encouraged to take responsibility for selecting training and development opportunities that appeal to your personal development goals, learning style and will best support you in your role. All agreed training and development opportunities can be undertaken as part of your agreed working hours.
Ongoing Performance
A yearly review meeting will be held with your line manager in order to review and support you within your role. You will be set targets at each review meeting and these along with KPI’s will be used to evaluate performance and to support the decision making process of future investments, activities and strategies. Performance on your targets and KPI’s will form part of the department's reports to the Board of Directors.
Next Steps
If you think you are a good fit and are interested in joining the team, please submit a CV and cover letter describing your interest in the position to CEO Nuala Geraghty at nuala@aadi.ie, no later than 27th April 2024.
Thank you for your time and your interest!
Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer
