Centre Manager

Centre Manager – The British Bird of Prey Centre

Location: Carmarthen, West Wales

Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 (dependant on experience)

Contract Type: Full-time

Start Date: TBA (September at the latest)

Are you passionate about British birds and the vital role they play in our ecosystem? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where conservation, education, and guest experience go hand in hand? The British Bird of Prey Centre is looking for an experienced, commercially minded Centre Manager to help shape the future of our growing organisation.

We are entering an exciting new chapter.

We’re moving to a brand-new, standalone site in Carmarthen, West Wales, an ambitious development that will become a major tourist attraction in the region. This role will be central to building and managing the bird of prey side of the new British Bird of Prey Centre. It’s a rare and exciting opportunity to be involved from the ground up in creating something truly special.

This role is based in West Wales, and we need applicants to fully understand the implications of that before applying. We’re looking for someone ready to build a long-term future here, not just take a job. You’ll be instrumental in helping us develop a team, a culture, and a destination that becomes a household name across the UK and beyond. We’re investing a lot into this role and want to find someone who is equally committed, someone prepared to build a life here, not to head home a year later because they miss family. We say that with kindness, but with honesty, this is a role for someone ready to put down roots.

We are a forward-thinking bird of prey centre.

We have a strict no tethering policy and are actively moving towards having none of our birds wear equipment, where possible. This means our training approach requires creativity, patience, and a deep respect for the birds as individuals. Everything we do is about choice, training methods that prioritise the birds’ autonomy, even when it’s not the easiest or quickest route. We don’t have a large collection, but we are deeply committed to flying all of our (mostly native) species daily and doing so in a way that sets a new standard for welfare and engagement. We’re looking for someone who shares that vision, who wants to explore new techniques, contribute to shaping how the public perceives birds of prey in zoos and centres, and help us lead by example in the UK and internationally.

Key Responsibilities:

Bird of Prey Welfare & Management

Ensure the highest standards of welfare for all birds of prey on site.
Confidently handle and fly a wide range of species, including falcons, owls, buzzards, hawks, and eagles.
Oversee all daily care, training, and health routines in line with our commitment to freedom-based, choice-led training methods.
Take full responsibility for veterinary tasks including record keeping, medicine management, coordinating vet visits, and ensuring proper administration of prescribed care.
Maintain compliance with zoo license requirements and liaise with licensing bodies, ensuring the centre meets all standards.

Team Leadership & Development

Lead, manage, and inspire a passionate team of staff and volunteers.
Design and deliver ongoing training plans to ensure continued professional development.
Delegate tasks effectively, ensuring high standards are upheld across all areas.
Hold team members accountable for their responsibilities with clear communication and follow-through.

Operational & Commercial Management

Maintain a sharp eye for detail, proactively identifying and resolving issues before they escalate.
Ensure the smooth daily running of the centre, including signage, facilities, and visitor touchpoints.
Uphold the quality of all visitor experiences—from day-to-day visits to private experiences—ensuring consistency, professionalism, and enjoyment.
Balance our strong commitment to education and conservation with the financial sustainability of the centre.

Strategic Development

Play a key role in the development of our exciting new site—bringing ideas, offering solutions, and helping shape our future.
Contribute creatively to event planning, centre layout, and guest engagement strategies.
Be a proactive ambassador for the centre, passionate about how the public perceives and experiences our work.

About You:

Genuine passion for British wildlife and educating the public about native bird species.
Extensive experience handling and managing birds of prey, including large eagles and falcons.
Strong understanding of animal welfare, training, and enrichment—especially progressive, choice-based methods.
Commercially aware with a clear understanding that sustainable business supports long-term conservation.
Highly organised, structured, and self-motivated with excellent attention to detail.
Natural leader with proven experience managing teams, setting goals, and driving accountability.
Confident communicator with the ability to delegate and oversee multiple tasks and projects.
Experience with zoo licensing and veterinary liaison is essential.

Why Join Us?

At The British Bird of Prey Centre, we believe that inspiring a love for British wildlife starts with passionate people delivering exceptional experiences. This role isn’t just about management, it’s about making a difference and being part of something that will have a lasting legacy.

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you’re the perfect fit to: emma@britishbirdofpreycentre.co.uk or call 07833921421 if you want more information about us or the role

Please note that you must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this position.

Deadline for applications: Will close when we find the right person!