Dynamic Operations Leader for Conservation & Visitor Experience

The Big Cat Sanctuary; Smarden; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sanctuary discounts

Free uniform

Access to events

Network of zoos and wildlife groups

Job summary

The Big Cat Sanctuary is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to turn the Managing Director's strategy into everyday operational reality. This hands-on leader will work across conservation, hospitality, visitor experiences and site development to drive performance.

Based in Smarden, Kent, the COO will coordinate a large leadership team, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure operational excellence while enabling growth and conservation leadership from the MD.

Qualifications

• Translate strategy into clear operational objectives across departments.
• Lead the Senior Leadership Team with clear priorities, KPIs and deadlines.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration, accountability and performance across the Sanctuary.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operational rhythm of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Translate the Managing Director's strategy into objective for each department and team.
• Ensure SLT and department heads have clear priorities, KPIs, deadlines and accountability.
• Challenge underperformance, slippage and missed deadlines.
• Oversee delivery of major projects with budgets, milestones and timelines.
• Monitor departmental performance and key operational KPIs.
• Drive efficiency, standards and resource allocation.

Job description

The Big Cat Sanctuary is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to turn the Managing Director's strategy into everyday operational reality. This hands-on leader will work across conservation, hospitality, visitor experiences and site development to drive performance.

Based in Smarden, Kent, the COO will coordinate a large leadership team, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure operational excellence while enabling growth and conservation leadership from the MD.