Kerry Friel
Elderslie,Renfrewshire
Summary
Compassionate and experienced animal welfare professional with over 16 years’ experience, including 12 years as an Inspector with the Scottish SPCA. Skilled in supporting vulnerable individuals, assessing welfare concerns, and working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes for both animals and owners. Experienced in managing complex cases, liaising with partner agencies, and delivering practical, person centred support to keep pets and owners together wherever possible.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Inspector
Scottish SPCA
Glasgow, City of Glasgow
2014.08 - Current
- Assisted in managing complex animal welfare cases involving vulnerable or at risk owners.
- Conducted home visits to evaluate animal welfare and owner circumstances.
- Established rapport with individuals in crisis, providing guidance and practical solutions.
- Collaborated with external agencies such as housing, social services, police, and vets to facilitate positive outcomes.
- Made informed decisions to safeguard animals while addressing owner needs.
- Maintained accurate case records, statements, and reports to ensure high standards.
- De-escalate confrontational situations and manage sensitive conversations with professionalism.
Animal Rescue Officer
Scottish SPCA
Glasgow, City of Glasgow
2012.08 - 2014.08
- Assisted in emergency situations involving animals and vulnerable members of the public.
- Evaluated welfare needs and recognised when additional support for owners was necessary.
- Supplied guidance and directed individuals to appropriate services.
- Handled and transported animals in a safe manner.
- Cooperated with colleagues to ensure effective teamwork.
Animal Care Assistant
Scottish SPCA
Bothwell, South Lanarkshire
2010.03 - 2012.08
- Assisted with daily animal care and monitored health and behaviour.
- Supported processes for rehabilitation and rehoming of animals.
- Helped match animals with suitable homes.
- Aided in behavioural training programmes to enhance adoptability chances for pets.
- Handled various types of animals with care during daily tasks.
- Educated public visitors about animal behaviours and care protocols.
- Maintained health records for all shelter animals, tracking treatments and vaccinations.
Bar Manager
Strathclyde Student Union
Glasgow, City of Glasgow
2001.09 - 2010.03
- Organised weekly staff rosters to optimise resource allocation.
- Coordinated front and back of house staff before events for smooth execution.
- Recruited and trained team members to deliver excellent customer care.
- Assisted in monitoring stock levels to prevent shortages during peak hours.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to support timely food service during busy periods.
- Maintained compliance with local licensing laws for smooth bar operations.
- Contributed to cocktail menu development to enhance beverage sales.
- Executed cash handling procedures to minimise daily discrepancies.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
University of Glasgow
City of Glasgow 2005.09 - 2009.06
SVQ Level 3 - Animal Care
Scottish SPCA
City of Glasgow 2017.06 - 2018.06
SVQ Level 3 - Managment
University of Strathclyde
Glasgow 2007.06 - 2008.06
Skills
- Experience working in emotionally complex and sensitive environments
- Confident working independently while managing a varied caseload
- Crisis rapport building
- Emotional resilience and ability to manage highly demanding and distressing situations
- Excellent professional judgement and decision making in complex welfare cases
- Strong interpersonal skills, calm, empathetic and professional approach
- Effective communication across a wide range of individuals and circumstances
- Proven ability to build rapport with vulnerable or distressed people
- Experience working collaboratively within multi-agency environments and refferrals
- Strong organisational and time management skills, including long distance travel
- Animal welfare assessment and handling
- Communication, empathy, and conflict resolution
- Accurate record keeping and report writing
Certification
Animal Welfare Legislation
Conflict Management / Personal Safety
Mental Heath Training
Data Protection/ GDPR
Inclusive Teams
Full UK Driving License
Flexible and able to travel
Timeline
SVQ Level 3 - Animal Care
Scottish SPCA
2017.06 - 2018.06
Inspector
Scottish SPCA
2014.08 - Current
Animal Rescue Officer
Scottish SPCA
2012.08 - 2014.08
Animal Care Assistant
Scottish SPCA
2010.03 - 2012.08
SVQ Level 3 - Managment
University of Strathclyde
2007.06 - 2008.06
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
University of Glasgow
2005.09 - 2009.06
Bar Manager
Strathclyde Student Union
2001.09 - 2010.03