Head of People and Operations

Location: UK remote, with regular travel to Tonbridge, Kent 
Contract: Full-time
Salary: £48,000 – £54,000 per annum
Reports to: General Manager

Help shape the next chapter of Animal Aid – and the future of animal rights. 

For almost 50 years, Animal Aid has been one of the UK’s leading animal rights organisations. As we embark on an ambitious strategy to 2030, we’re looking for an exceptional Head of People and Operations to help us build the organisation that will deliver our next stage of growth.

This is a new and critical senior leadership role. While our mission is to create lasting change for animals, it is our people who make that possible every day. You’ll help ensure Animal Aid is a supportive, high-performing and values-led organisation where staff can do their very best work for animals.

Reporting to the General Manager and working closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team, you’ll lead our people function, oversee HR strategy and operations, support organisational development, and play a key role in finance, governance and organisational effectiveness.

We’re looking for someone who combines strong HR leadership with excellent operational skills, strategic thinking and a genuine commitment to building positive workplace cultures.

You’ll bring:

• Significant senior-level HR and people management experience
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice
• Experience developing policies, processes and organisational systems
• Excellent relationship-building, communication and leadership skills
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery
• CIPD Level 5+ (or equivalent experience)
• Commitment to Animal Aid’s aims and values, and sympathy with our ethical vegan position.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a respected and influential not-for-profit at a pivotal moment in its development.

Join us and help build the organisation that will power the next generation of progress for animals.

Apply by EOD Sunday 30th August 2026 by sending your CV and a cover letter outlining your fit to the role and why you want to work for Animal Aid to recruitment@animalaid.org.uk.

First-round interviews will be held online the week commencing 14th September.
Second-round interviews will be held in person on 21st and 23rd September.

Animal Aid is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all candidates who have the required skills and experience, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy, race, religion or belief and marital status.

Please note: Animal Aid cannot provide visa sponsorship, so applicants must have the legal right to live and work in the UK to be considered for this role. You must live in the UK and we are unable to pay any relocation costs.