Adoption and Foster Programmes Manager Freelancer (Dog Behaviour and Training Specialist)

Adoption & Foster Programmes Manager Freelancer (Dog Behaviour & Training Specialist) for ROLDA UK

Contract Type: Self-employed, permanent
Hours: Part-time (potential for full-time for the right candidate)
Salary: £28,000 per annum (pro-rata)
Location: Remote
Reporting To: CEO
Organisational Structure:
Works closely with Head of Fundraising (adoption success stories), Social Media Manager (social media promotion), and Adoption coordinator (shared dog allocation between the UK and Sweden).

About us
Thank you for your interest in our Adoption and Foster Programmes Manager role.
ROLDA (Romanian League in Defence of Animals) is a small but dedicated animal welfare charity committed to improving the lives of dogs, cats, and other animals in Romania and internationally. Since its establishment in 2006, ROLDA has been a beacon of hope for the millions of vulnerable stray animals in Romania—one of Europe’s economically poorest nations.
Our mission is to manage the homeless animal population, estimated to be in the millions, through six key areas of focus: rescue, rehabilitation, sheltering, sterilisation, rehoming, and education. Within our shelters—designed with inspiration from British kennel models and maintained to meet EU animal welfare standards—we can accommodate up to 700 stray
rescued animals at a time. Here, they receive full veterinary care, rehabilitation, and preparation for adoption.
Since 2006, we have helped over 80,000 animals, primarily dogs and cats, and have built two dedicated dog shelters and a facility for disabled and senior cats. In addition to our direct rescue and rehoming efforts, we provide financial support, primarily through small grants to other charities in Romania and approx 40 shelters in Ukraine. Our rehoming efforts primarily focus on Switzerland, Sweden, and the UK.
Beyond rescue and sheltering, ROLDA actively addresses the root cause of Romania’s homeless animal crisis through comprehensive neutering programmes and educational initiatives. 
We are proud of the work we do and remain committed to building a better future for Romania’s stray animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and long-term solutions.

Role Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Adoption & Foster Programmes Manager with expertise in dog behaviour and training to oversee and enhance our adoption and foster care initiatives. This role requires strong experience with stray dogs, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build relationships with adopters, foster carers, and behaviourists.

Key Responsibilities
Adoption Programme:

• Ensure smooth adoption processes by clearly communicating guidelines and expectations to adopters before the adoption is approved/dog is transported in the UK .
• Conduct pre- and post-adoption home checks in collaboration with volunteer organisations.
• Provide ongoing post-adoption support, answering queries and addressing concerns.
• Maintain regular communication with adopters to gather feedback and updates.
• Ensure dogs available for adoption are well-advertised.

Foster Programme Development:

• Create a structured and sustainable foster programme.
• Establish 1-3 reliable foster homes (to start with) for cases where adoptions fail.
• Develop a plan to expand the foster network over time.
• Determine the costs associated with the foster programme and identify potential funding sources to support it.

Dog Behaviour & Training Support:

• Provide training tips and behavioural guidance to adopters.
• Build and maintain relationships with 1-2 UK-based dog behaviourists
• Offer expert advice to adopters on handling behavioural challenges.

Communication & Relationship Management:

• Act as the key contact for adopters, providing timely advice and support in emergencies.
• Handle difficult situations with professionalism, ensuring positive representation of ROLDA.
• Gather and manage adopter feedback to improve the adoption process.

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience working with stray dogs, ideally having adopted or fostered strays personally.
• Strong knowledge of dog behaviour and training techniques.
• Ability to connect with and collaborate with professional dog behaviourists.
• Experience in managing or developing foster care programmes.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain processes clearly and support adopters effectively.
• Patience and professionalism when dealing with challenging situations.

Person Specification
Essential:

• Experience working with stray dogs, ideally having adopted or fostered strays personally.
• Strong knowledge of dog behaviour and training techniques.
• Ability to provide clear training advice and behavioural support to adopters.
• Experience in managing or developing foster care programmes.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain processes clearly and support adopters effectively.
• Patience and professionalism when dealing with challenging situations.
• Ability to work independently and proactively to improve the adoption and foster programs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy.
• Good organisational and administrative skills, including record-keeping and follow-ups.
• A flexible approach to working, including occasional tasks outside core responsibilities.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in an adoption or fostering role within an animal welfare organisation.
• Established connections with professional dog behaviourists in the UK.
• Knowledge of fundraising and budgeting to support the foster programme.
• Experience using social media or online platforms for dog adoption promotion.
• Understanding of UK dog adoption regulations and requirements.
• Familiarity with home-check procedures and adoption screening.

Qualifications & Training
Essential:

• Professional experience in dog behaviour, training, or welfare (may be through hands-on work rather than formal education).
• Knowledge of animal welfare standards and best practices in adoption and fostering.
• Demonstrable experience working with dogs, particularly strays or rescue dogs.

Desirable:

• Formal qualification in dog behaviour, training, or animal welfare (e.g., Level 3 or higher qualification in Animal Care, Canine Behaviour, or similar).
• Certification from a recognised dog training or behaviour body (e.g., IMDT, APDT, IAABC, or ABTC-accredited course).
• Qualification or training in animal welfare legislation and home-checking procedures.
• First Aid for Dogs certification.
• Training in conflict resolution or customer service, especially in animal welfare contexts.

Additional Requirements & Flexibility

• The successful candidate must be willing to take on occasional tasks outside their core responsibilities as needed.
• The role requires adaptability as the adoption and foster programmes evolve.
•  Must be willing to travel as needed to support the charity’s adoption, foster, and rescue initiatives, as well as to collaborate with partner organisations.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements: To support your work-life balance, we offer flexible work hours and the option to work remotely.
• Meaningful work: Join a team dedicated to making a real difference to animals in need and see the direct impact of your efforts.
• Opportunities for leadership: Take on this leadership role and gain valuable experience and career growth opportunities.
• Inclusive culture: Be part of a diverse, inclusive team that values and respects all members.

How to Apply:

Before submit your CV with a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, please make sure that the essentials listed on Person Specification, Qualifications and Training are met. Thank you.

ROLDA is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of stray dogs, ensuring they find loving and well-prepared homes. If you are passionate about dog welfare and have the skills to manage adoption and foster programmes, we would love to hear from you.