Head of Animal Collection

London Source: WhatJobs

£35,000–£45,000 per annum

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

West Norfolk, UK

Closing date for applications is: 6th Nov 2026

Contact: Jo Panrucker ( ) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £35,000 - £45,000, depending on experience and qualifications

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is home to the largest collection of deer and antelope species in the UK, alongside important collections of waterfowl, cranes, pheasants and Great Bustards.

Set within a 170-acre reserve in Norfolk, we are looking for an experienced and hands‑on Head of Animal Collection to lead the development and management of our animal collection and animal care team.

This is a senior leadership role combining animal welfare, collection planning, conservation, people management and regulatory responsibility with practical involvement in the day-to-day life of the reserve.

The Role

You Will Be Responsible For

Leading animal welfare and husbandry standards across the collection.
Managing and developing the animal care team.
Overseeing collection planning, breeding and population management.
Coordinating veterinary care and preventative health programmes.
Supporting conservation, research and education initiatives.
Ensuring appropriate records, licensing and regulatory standards are maintained.
Contributing to the future development of the collection and reserve.
Remaining practically involved in animal and reserve operations where required.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

Significant practical experience working with ungulates in a zoological, safari park, wildlife collection or similar environment
At least five years’ relevant professional animal‑management experience, including supervisory or leadership responsibility
Strong animal welfare and husbandry knowledge
Experience leading and developing an animal care team.
Proven expertise in data management and compliance legislation.
A practical, positive and solutions‑focused approach.
Strong communication and organisational skills.
Competence in IT packages and relevant technologies
A full UK driving licence.

Experience with avian species, ZIMS, firearms, animal immobilisation and relevant land‑management or machinery qualifications would be an advantage.

What We Offer

£35,000–£45,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
The opportunity to lead one of Europe’s most significant private deer and antelope collections.
A varied senior role with real influence over the future direction of the collection and reserve.
Ongoing professional development.

Learn more about Watatunga here:

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