Manager, Animal-assisted Services

**ABOUT EQUAL**

EQUAL is an Institute of Public Character (IPC) charity that focuses on the social, emotional, and mental well-being of children, youths, persons with special needs, and the elderly. We do this through transformative animal-assisted services which are evidence-based.

EQUAL has a strong culture of care and service to people, animals and communities. We partner with rescued and retired horses to empower those whom we serve, enhancing their socio-emotional well-being, self-awareness, and relationship management skills - developing resilience and strengthening individuals and communities.

**ABOUT THE ROLE**

The purpose of this role is to establish a strong foundation for EQUAL in leading Animals-Assisted Services (AAS) in Singapore through supported research work and impact on our beneficiaries. This role will be responsible for research and impact measurement for AAS work as well as designing new programmes. This person will also provide supervision and in-house training for the staff team on therapy skills.

**(A)**RESEARCH AND PEDAGOGY**
**(1) Programme Design, and Pedagogy**
- Lead workgroup discussions to develop various programmes’ SOP Manuals, and enhanced training standards to raise the quality of our service level standards to beneficiaries.
- Ensure that all programmes are supported by research and are evidence driven.

**(B)**IMPACT MEASUREMENT**

**(1) Demonstrate, document, and highlight Programmes Impact**
- Develop and implement impact measurements for AAS programmes.
- Work closely within and across departments to increase public and sector awareness of Animal-assisted services in Singapore.
- Disseminate and present research findings to raise awareness, influence policies, and advocate for change.

**(2) Oversee Programme Evaluation**
- Conduct thorough evaluations of programmes to assess their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
- Provide administrative support for reports
- **(C) New Business Development**Play a pivotal role in driving new business development initiatives, identifying and pursuing strategic opportunities that align with the company's growth objectives.
- Responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, from potential clients to industry partners, while actively seeking innovative ways to expand market presence.
- This role requires a deep understanding of market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics, enabling you to lead cross-functional teams in the execution of impactful sales strategies. Your leadership will be crucial in securing new business partnerships, optimizing revenue streams, and contributing to the overall success of the organisation.

**(C)**TRAINING & CAPACITY BUILDING**

**(1)**Staff Competency Development**
- Chart individual staff development plans and competency road maps for teammatesConduct training for the staff team to increase knowledge on the social service landscape, trauma-informed care, good attending skills, report writing, etc.
- Provide coaching and supervision of for a group of supervisees
- **(E )**OTHERS AS ASSIGNED**Learn the basics of animal (horses) management for exposure and understanding.
- Shadow and learn from animal-assisted practitioners, when applicable.
- Carry out programme administrative duties and various programme reports within the stipulated timeline.
- Oversee the budget for the assigned projects, and support the activities or projects assigned by Senior Management/ Board.
- Able to commit to work on weekends or after-office hours for events or meetings if needed.

**ROLE REQUIREMENTS**

Preferred Experience:

- Masters in social work, counselling, psychology, education. Other relevant social services disciplines will be considered.
- Membership with accredited professional bodies such as Singapore Association of Social Workers, Singapore Psychology Society, Singapore Association for Counselling
- At least 6 years of similar clinical experience in social services sector
- Proficient in research and evaluation work.
- Have supervised and managed a team of 4 or more people in an operational or clinical role for at least two years
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team

Technical Competencies:

- Experience in clinical teaching and research
- Experience and training in Animals-Assisted Services or experienced with horses are a plus

Other Attributes:

- Empathetic, innovative and client-centric
- Motivated and self-driven
- Good time management and enjoy working in teams
- A strong team player who is also able to work independently
- Able to engage stakeholders at all levels to understand their needs