Hoppys Place Rescue Inc. – Melton, Victoria

Hoppys Place Rescue Inc. is seeking an experienced, confident and proactive person to help take the reins of our growing animal rescue.

This is not a passive position. We need a hands-on leader and all-rounder who can see what needs doing, make sensible decisions and get things moving without waiting to be directed at every step.

Our rescue operates in a demanding and often unpredictable environment. The right person will understand that animal rescue involves much more than caring for animals—it also requires managing people, solving problems, coordinating daily operations, fundraising, building relationships and remaining calm when challenges arise.

About the role

Working closely with the President and committee, you will help oversee the rescue’s daily operations and future development.

Responsibilities may include:

• Providing practical leadership and direction to volunteers and foster carers
• Coordinating daily rescue operations and ensuring tasks are completed
• Making timely operational decisions within the rescue’s policies and procedures
• Supporting animal intakes, foster placements, adoptions and veterinary coordination
• Recruiting, engaging and retaining volunteers
• Delegating responsibilities and following up on agreed actions
• Developing fundraising, sponsorship and community-engagement opportunities
• Building positive relationships with supporters, businesses, veterinary clinics and community organisations
• Identifying areas for improvement and implementing workable solutions
• Helping the rescue become stronger, more organised and financially sustainable
• Keeping the President and committee informed of important decisions, concerns and progress

About you

We are looking for someone who:

• Is proactive, dependable and genuinely motivated
• Has a strong “let’s get this done” attitude
• Can lead people respectfully and confidently
• Communicates well and actively engages with others
• Can make sound decisions without needing constant approval
• Takes ownership and follows tasks through to completion
• Is organised, resourceful and able to prioritise
• Understands the emotional, practical and financial challenges of animal rescue
• Can work calmly in a busy and sometimes confronting environment
• Is comfortable helping wherever needed—no task is considered beneath the role
• Brings ideas, initiative and a desire to help the rescue grow
• Respects confidentiality, animal welfare requirements and organisational policies

Experience in animal rescue, volunteer management, operations, leadership, community services, fundraising or not-for-profit organisations would be highly regarded.

Important information

This is currently a volunteer position. Hoppys Place Rescue Inc. is operating with very limited funds, so we cannot presently offer a wage or guarantee that the role will become paid.

Our hope is that, as the rescue grows and becomes more financially sustainable, some paid work or reimbursement may become possible. However, applicants must understand that this cannot be promised.

The successful person will be given genuine responsibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference within a grassroots rescue. You will have the freedom to manage day-to-day matters and make appropriate decisions while working within our policies, animal-welfare obligations and agreed financial limits.

This role would suit someone who wants to help shape the future of a rescue—not someone looking for a title without active involvement.

How to apply

Please include a short cover letter telling us:

• Why you are interested in helping Hoppys Place Rescue Inc.
• Your relevant leadership, rescue or operational experience
• How you approach decision-making and problem-solving
• Your general availability
• What you believe you could bring to the rescue

If you are practical, people-friendly, passionate about animal welfare and ready to roll up your sleeves, we would love to hear from you.