Human Resources & Executive Support Coordinator

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 21,000; Part time

Job summary

A dedicated animal welfare organization in Kent is seeking a part-time Human Resources & Executive Support Coordinator. This role involves managing HR processes, providing PA support, and contributing to a collaborative team environment. Ideal candidates are organized and approachable, with strong communication skills. The starting salary is £17,472 per annum, with 17 days paid holiday and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts for UK zoos

Free access to conservation projects

Qualifications

• Experience handling confidential information appropriately.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Full, clean driving licence and access to own vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Managing recruitment and onboarding processes.
• Coordinating staff training and development.
• Providing general PA and administrative support.

Skills

Communication and interpersonal skills

Organisational and administrative skills

Approachability

Attention to detail

Empathy and discretion

Education

Experience in HR regulations and functions

Tools

Microsoft Office & Outlook

Job description

The Big Cat Sanctuary

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Kent Closing date for applications is: 30th Sep 2025

Part-Time, Permanent (24 hours per week, 3 over 7 days), on-site at The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn, Kent

The Big Cat Sanctuary is seeking a motivated and organised Human Resources & Executive Support Coordinator to join our team. This is a varied role combining HR administration with team support, offering the chance to make a real difference in a unique and inspiring environment.

This is a highly visible and impactful role, contributing to both staff experience and the smooth operation of the Sanctuary. You will join a collaborative and passionate team dedicated to animal welfare and staff development. The ideal candidate is organised, approachable, proactive, and capable of balancing multiple priorities while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality, handling HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, training coordination, employee relations, and maintaining accurate HR records. Alongside this, you will provide PA support to the Senior Leadership Team, including minute-taking at key meetings to ensure clear communication and effective follow-up.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing recruitment and onboarding processes
• Coordinating staff training and development
• Supporting performance management and appraisals
• Handling employee relations and welfare queries
• Maintaining HR records and compliance with policies and legislation
• Acting as the meeting notes taker for key internal meetings
• Providing general PA and administrative support to the Senior Leadership Team

What we’re looking for:

We are looking for someone who is not only organised and efficient, but also a genuine people person with the confidence and empathy to support staff across all levels of the Sanctuary.

What you’ll bring:

Approachability and strong people insight, with the ability to build trust and positive working relationships.

Excellent attention to detail and high standards in administration.

A level-headed and professional manner, especially when dealing with sensitive matters.

Proactive and adaptable skills, able to anticipate needs and work independently as well as part of a team.

Empathy and discretion, handling confidential information appropriately.

Confidence and resilience, able to remain calm and objective when challenges arise.

Job Requirements

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage positively with staff, volunteers, guests, clients and stakeholders

Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with strong attention to detail

Good knowledge and experience of Microsoft Office & Outlook

A good understanding and prior experience of working with basic HR regulations and functions, with the willingness to learn and grow in the role.

Experience in using discretion and confidentiality when handling sensitive information

Ability to work in a collaborative, approachable, and solutions-focused way

Full, clean driving licence and access to own vehicle (as the Big Cat Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport)

In line with the requirements of the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK or must obtain permits before application (documented evidence of eligibility will be required as part of the recruitment process)

What to Expect in the Role

24 hours per week, 3 over 7 days; generally worked between 08.00–17.00, although some evening/weekend work may be required to cover special circumstances and deadlines

Starting salary £17,472 per annum (£14.00 per hour)

17 days paid holiday, plus Christmas Day off as standard

Why Work Here

Join a passionate, collaborative team dedicated to the care of big cats and an exceptional staff experience

Play a key role in shaping the Sanctuary’s culture by supporting both people and operations

Opportunities for professional growth within HR and operational support

Access to Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts and other benefits, including free access to UK and European zoos and collections, regular team gatherings and celebrations, and a company Conservation Award (giving team members the chance to travel together to one of our supported global conservation project partners)

Full uniform provided

Apply for this job:

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to [e-mail] stating the reference Human Resources Coordinator in the email title.

Closing Date Tuesday, 30th September 2025. However, we reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the number of applications received, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Follow Us

BIAZA, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY

BIAZA's office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.

If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on 07593 580602. If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number 6789783.Registered Office Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is 1128168 and SC040783 (Scotland)