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Program Manager - Guide Dogs WA

EverAbility Group Limited
  • Location: Perth, WA

We are searching for someone to lead our Guide Dog Services team into the future. A future where the possibilities are limitless and the vision is clear. Are you passionate about leading a team that transforms lives?

The beautiful dogs in our program do so much more than help people who are vision impaired to navigate the world around them. They do more than settle and calm a child living with autism, or someone struggling with trauma or illness.

They give the gift of independence and confidence to their handlers. They bring joy and companionship, hope and opportunity, not only to the people whose lives they are changing, but also to their families. Check out Tegan and Louis's story here, our youngest ever Guide Dog user!

We are working to meet the growing local demand for not only Guide Dogs, but also Autism Assistance Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Dementia Dogs, Court Dogs, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) Dogs who we know, make life- changing differences to those in our local communities living with low vision, disability and illness. 

The Premier has announced that a welcomed $5 million funding will be provided to Guide Dogs WA to be used specifically for establishing the Breeding Program and Cadetship Program to train staff. You can read the full announcement here. Join us in this exciting time as we make history together.

The Role

This is a permanent, full time position.

The Program Manager provides technical leadership, development and management across Guide Dog Services WA. Providing leadership and supervision to our Guide Dog Mobility Instructors, Guide Dog Trainers and support staff, key responsibilities of your role will include:

  • Work strategically with the Manager Guide Dogs and Breeding to investigate, grow and develop programs and services, securing future funding streams and advocating and negotiating for NDIS clients.
  • Providing technical expertise, advice, training, coaching and leadership of the Guide and Assistance Dog services teams.
  • In collaboration with other members of the Guide Dog Mobility and Puppy Raising team, monitor and support the intake, assessment and matching of dogs.
  • Evaluate the quality (i.e. adhering to International Guide Dog Federation - IGDF – standards and ADI standards) and responsiveness of Guide and Assistance Dog services ensuring their effectiveness and their relevance to the client population.
  • Provide professional recommendations regarding suitable career for dogs in the program to the Manager Guide Dogs and Breeding.
  • Lead and support direct reporting staff in accordance with their JDs and expected performance KPI’s.

Salary range is up to $101,461 per annum (exclusive of superannuation). We are open to negotiation for the right candidate.

What is Unique About You?

You believe that your role as a leader is pivotal in developing and maintaining a team and making a meaningful difference to the world. You are authentic, confident and decisive balanced with an empathetic and approachable demeanour. You have proven success in motivating people to achieve their goals.

If this sounds like you and you, then we want to hear from you!

To be considered you will need:

  • A relevant qualification in Allied Health, Occupational Therapy or Psychology highly regarded, with NDIS experience or a qualification in Vet Science with leadership experience.
  • Proven team management, coaching and mentoring skills.
  • A current valid driver’s license.
  • Eligibility to work in Australia.

Not essential by highly desirable:

  • Up-to-date knowledge of Guide Dog Mobility theory and practices, and knowledge of community resources relevant to people with vision impairment.
  • A qualification in Guide Dog Mobility Training or Orientation and Mobility.

What's in it for You?

If you enjoy variety in your work, where no day is the same, then this is the role for you! Feel rewarded by purpose in your work as you help people living with disability and developmental delay to achieve independence and inclusion. Be challenged by the work you do in this dynamic and changing environment. We have a number of professionals in diverse roles with expertise in their field. Learn and expand your knowledge in this specialised area. You will also benefit from:

  • Generous Salary Packaging arrangements up to $15,800, calculate your potential income here - www.cbb.com.au/salary-packaging-calculator.
  • Company laptop, mobile phone and vehicle allowance provided.
  • Work within a friendly and supportive team who are passionate about what they do.
  • Flexible working arrangements.
  • Access to Training and Professional Development opportunities.
  • 3 additional days of paid leave as a gift to you over the Christmas / New Year period.
  • Free use of our onsite gym and discounts to fitness programs (find out more about our programs here - www.perronplace.org.au/whats-on/fitness-classes
  • An Employee Assistance Program offering external counselling and support services to you and your family.
  • Free on-site parking and close to public transport (across the road from Victoria Park Train Station).
  • Subsidised annual flu shots.
  • Dogs in the office everyday!

How to Apply

We assess all applications based on merit. Should a suitable candidate be identified, EverAbility Group reserves the right to close this recruitment process. If you are interested in this position:

  1. Apply via the Guide Dogs WA Jobs recruitment portal by clicking Apply Now.
  2. Complete the online application. Attach a resume and cover letter addressing the essential criteria above. Please note this is a mandatory requirement of the application process.

Questions before you proceed?

Email [email protected], using the subject line: Program Manager - Guide Dogs WA enquiry via EthicalJobs, or call (08) 9311 8202 and ask to speak to Anna Presser, Manager Guide Dogs and Breeding.

Applications close

Applications close as soon as the right person applies!

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