About the Job

The Executive Manager is the senior operational leader and primary visionary voice of Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary. The EM leads and manages the organization within the strategy, policies, budget, and delegated authority approved by the Board, and is accountable for ensuring that EDS achieves its mission effectively, responsibly, and sustainably.

The Executive Manager leads through the Management Committee. Each functional portfolio is the accountable responsibility of a designated manager. The Executive Manager’s role is to set organizational direction, coordinate the Manco’s work, develop managers, monitor performance, and lead the organization as an integrated whole. The EM does not manage operations directly but is accountable for all outcomes, including those achieved through delegation.

In addition to managing the current strategic plan, the Executive Manager is expected to advance EDS’s position as a Centre of Excellence in donkey welfare — a nationally and regionally recognised reference point for donkey welfare knowledge, standards, education, and advocacy. This is a standing strategic responsibility, not a project objective.

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.

Please send your resume/CV