IAHAIO serves as the global organization uniting groups and individuals dedicated to practice, research, and education in human animal interaction and animal-assisted services. Our network includes more than 140 multidisciplinary member organizations, professional associations and xx individual members worldwide.

Our mission is to lead globally in promoting the field of human-animal interaction while serving as a collective voice for our members. We achieve this through research, education, and interdisciplinary partnerships. Our online scientific journal People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice (PAIJ) shares current findings and we develop shared international guidelines that set best practice standards for various aspects of human and animal welfare within animal-assisted services.

This is an exciting transitional time in IAHAIO’s development and we are looking to appoint new Board members to help drive our sustainable growth. We are seeking people with vision, enthusiasm and the time to devote to IAHAIO. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds from across the globe, with experience in: animal-assisted services (research and practice), organizational management, fundraising, veterinary science, finance, membership development, communication and event management and the non-profit sector. Prior experience of working on a Board is preferred.

Board members serve on a voluntary basis without remuneration. There are 6-10 board meetings annually, along with additional sub-committee meetings as required. The board’s operations are now predominantly virtual, requiring little to no travel. Members are expected to participate in the virtual Annual General Meeting. For our in-person Triennial Conference, travel and accommodation costs may be reimbursed, subject to available funding. The average time commitment is approximately 10 hours a month.

All applications should be sent to director@iahaio.org

Want to find out more?

To learn more about what the role involves, download the IAHAIO Trustee Role and Expectations document.

If you would like an informal chat with the IAHAIO President about the position before submitting an application, please contact director@iahaio.org

Apply here

For those eager to help lead a global network of organizations and individuals passionate about human-animal relationships this is a unique opportunity. IAHAIO invites you to apply. Please complete the application form, include your CV along with a cover letter detailing your interest in the position. Please also provide the names of two referees. All applicants will be contacted.

To apply, download the application form here.

Closing date for applications: 30 June 2026