SARA LOUISE MCCRACKEN
Toowoon Bay,NSW
Summary
As a dedicated and experienced conservation professional, I bring a wealth of expertise in environmental science and conservation, backed by a BSc (Hons) in Zoology with Conservation. With a robust background spanning over 11 years, I have successfully navigated roles in various sectors, including registered charities, councils, universities, zoos, and aquariums. As a Dedicated Project Officer I am successful at cultivating strong relationships and building quality-minded teams. Consistent record of completing projects according to schedule and earning high client satisfaction. My commitment to conservation, land management and recovery has led me to applying for a job in the environmental and heritage sector of the NSW Government.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Reception Officer
Central Coast Council
01.2024 - Current
- Served as a reliable point of contact for visitors, clients, and employees by maintaining open lines of communication and demonstrating exceptional interpersonal skills.
- Ensured accuracy of client information by diligently updating records within the company database system.
- Managed high call volumes with exceptional customer service skills, resolving issues promptly and accurately.
- Optimized workflow processes using expert multitasking abilities to manage multiple projects simultaneously without compromising quality.
- Facilitated seamless appointment scheduling for clients.
Manager, Animal Care Centre
RSPCA
07.2021 - 05.2023
- In my most recent role as Manager of the Animal Care Centre at RSPCA NSW, I oversaw all aspects of the adoption centre, managing both staff and animals
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Controlled costs to keep business operating within budget and increase profits.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- This role required a comprehensive understanding of compliance with animal welfare standards and legislative frameworks
- Key achievements: Developed and implemented procedures to support operational objectives and meet animal welfare standards
- Ensured compliance with legislative frameworks and industry best-practice standards
- Collaborated with senior management to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Conducted recruitments, handled HR responsibilities, and provided training to staff, students, and volunteers
- Organized and promoted adoption and education events for the public, representing the shelter in community events.
Assistant Animal Care Mnager
RSPCA Qld
02.2018 - 04.2021
- Team leader of a large pound contracted shelter facility working directly with local council and public with breaches in compliance and local pet ownership laws. government regulations.
- Fundraising events on and offsite, including microchipping days and adoption promotions.
- Ensured optimal animal welfare with diligent monitoring and prompt response to any health or behavioral concerns.
- Enhanced staff efficiency through the development of comprehensive training programs for animal care specialists.
- Improved animal care standards by implementing new protocols and procedures for daily tasks.
- Monitored overall health of animals through daily observation and hands-on training.
- Delivered animal outreach presentations and animal appearances in various media and stage presentations.
Conservation Project Officer
James Cook University
01.2013 - 02.2016
- In this role, I worked in a high-profile conservation team the project was widely covered by internal news agencies
- This role involved preparing and delivering communications materials and stakeholder engagement and conducting research and conservation outcomes with the scientific team
- Key Responsibilities: Data collection and analysis Preparation and delivery of a series of workshops at JCU in collaboration with Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium Development of environmental enrichment program for Blue Spotted Lagoon Ray and sea turtles.
- Designed and delivered daily educational talks to the public on animal husbandry, training, reef safety and marine ecology
- Data collection and analysis Lab technician Research assistant on climate change using Excel
- Kept senior management well-informed by preparing and presenting project status reports.
Research Assistant
Australian Institute Of Marine Science
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Performed statistical, qualitative, and quantitative analysis on coral reef bleaching trends on GBR.
- Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Organized research materials, maintaining a well-ordered workspace conducive to productivity.
- Worked both independently and collaboratively in fast-paced laboratory environment.
- Recorded experimental findings in laboratory notebook to analyze and interpret experimental findings.
- Reviewed documents and data to identify trends and patterns.
Researcher and Keeper
Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Designed and delivered daily educational talks with the ring-tailed lemurs
- These included educating the general public on diet, conservation, captive breeding programs and the importance of zoos and captive wildlife management not only in Durrell but worldwide.
- Gathered and organized information for research purposes.
- Wrote research papers, reports, reviews, and summaries regarding husbandry, steriotyping behaviours and environmental enrichment.
- Analyzed and interpreted patterns and trends in species specific behaviour.
Education
Bsc (Hons) Zoology and Conservation -
Bangor University
Advanced Certificate In Australian Wildlife Studies -
The International School of Veterinary Nursing
01.2023
Skills
- Project Management
- Stakeholder Relations
- Presentation Skills
- Project Scoping
- Presentation abilities
- Document coordination
- Deadline Adherence
- Schedule Management
Timeline
Reception Officer
Central Coast Council
01.2024 - Current
Manager, Animal Care Centre
RSPCA
07.2021 - 05.2023
Assistant Animal Care Mnager
RSPCA Qld
02.2018 - 04.2021
Conservation Project Officer
James Cook University
01.2013 - 02.2016
Researcher and Keeper
Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
01.2013 - 01.2014
Research Assistant
Australian Institute Of Marine Science
01.2012 - 01.2013
Bsc (Hons) Zoology and Conservation -
Bangor University
Advanced Certificate In Australian Wildlife Studies -
The International School of Veterinary Nursing
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