Senior Manager, Animal Welfare & Behaviour Programs

Ottawa Humane Society; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 102,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ottawa Humane Society seeks a strategic Senior Manager to lead Behaviour and Population Management, combining animal welfare science with population analytics and people leadership. You will shape programs, teams, and budgets to improve welfare outcomes.

Based in Ottawa, this full-time, in-person role starts January 2027 and requires collaboration across departments, strong communication, and a track record of managing complex behavioural programs in humane settings.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in animal behaviour, animal science, animal welfare, veterinary technology, zoology, psychology, or a related discipline
• A recognized professional certification in animal behaviour, training, or a related field is preferred
• Minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in animal behaviour, preferably in a humane society or shelter
• Minimum of six years staff management experience
• Full professional proficiency in spoken and written English is required

Responsibilities

• Research, develop, implement, manage, monitor, and evaluate all aspects of Intervention Services, Foster, and Animal Population programs
• Determine short- and long-term tactics and strategies to achieve department goals
• Lead and support managers, supervisors, and coordinators in their areas
• Provide statistical analysis of programs and trends to inform decisions
• Develop and maintain relationships with partners and stakeholders to achieve goals
• Ensure adherence to SOPs and departmental budgets
• Provide training and supervision for staff and volunteers
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and legal requirements

Skills

Applied animal behaviour

Behaviour assessment

Team leadership

Welfare-focused decisions

Education

Post-secondary degree/diploma in animal sciences

Certification in animal behaviour

Job description

The Ottawa Humane Society seeks a strategic Senior Manager to lead Behaviour and Population Management, combining animal welfare science with population analytics and people leadership. You will shape programs, teams, and budgets to improve welfare outcomes.

Based in Ottawa, this full-time, in-person role starts January 2027 and requires collaboration across departments, strong communication, and a track record of managing complex behavioural programs in humane settings.