Head of Operations

Head of Operations

Eurogroup for Animals

Brussels, Belgium

Eurogroup for Animals is the pan-European animal protection organisation which unites the voices of leading national and international organisations. We work to improve the welfare of as many animals as possible by leading and delivering coordinated advocacy and campaigns at European level. Eurogroup for Animals uses its knowledge and expertise to challenge EU decision makers and bring about positive change. By uniting our members and working together we magnify national activities to get our message across at European level. Eurogroup for Animals is a founding member of the World Federation for Animals (WFA), our global sister organisation.

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for building strong systems, fostering a positive workplace culture, and driving operational excellence? We’re looking for a proactive and experienced Head of Operations to join our Leadership Team and help steer our organisation towards even greater impact.

Purpose of the role

As Head of Operations, you will ensure the organisation functions at its highest potential by overseeing and optimising key areas: HR, IT systems, governance, internal processes, and office management. Working closely with a team of five skilled professionals and reporting to the CEO, you’ll play a central role in building an efficient, values-aligned, and future-ready organisation.

Primary responsibilities

Human resources

• Collaborate with the HR Manager to design and implement a strategic HR plan that aligns with our values and mission;
• Oversee core HR functions: recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and retention;
• Promote a culture of trust, accountability, and self-management;
• Ensure smooth daily HR operations and legal compliance;
• Support well-being and mental health initiatives for staff across all locations.

Systems & processes

• Work with the Systems Manager to manage and enhance IT and office systems;
• Champion the adoption of tools and practices that boost efficiency and productivity;
• Identify and implement process improvements, training, and guidelines.

Governance

• Act as Secretary to the Board and guardian of the Articles of Association;
• Advise the CEO and Board on governance matters and ensure legal compliance;
• Coordinate Board and AGM documentation, including minutes and publications;
• Maintain the UBO register and act as the organisation’s Data Protection Officer (DPO), ensuring GDPR compliance.

Office management

• Partner with the Office Manager to ensure smooth office operations and an optimal working environment for all staff – onsite and remote.

Person specification

Essential skills & qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar operations role (in consultancy, NGO, or industry sectors);
• Strong strategic and operational leadership abilities;
• Expertise in HR practices and employment law in Belgium (and other EU countries is an asset);
• In-depth knowledge of governance, compliance, and legal frameworks;
• Proficient in IT systems and process implementation;
• Excellent organisational, project management, and multitasking skills;
• Fluent in spoken and written English;
• Highly collaborative, values-driven, and people-focused;
• Demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines;
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, solution-oriented approach;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable skills

• Experience with Salesforce and Pardot;
• Proficiency in French and one other European language;
• Knowledge of the Brussels institutional environment.

The person should have affinity with animal welfare and relate to the vision and mission of Eurogroup for Animals.

The values that we at Eurogroup for Animals adhere to are: collaboration; entrepreneurship; impact and a focus on member organisations.

Apply

The position is a full-time and permanent position, based in Brussels.

Please send your application letter, your salary expectations and CV to jobs@eurogroupforanimals.org.