Operations Director

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); London; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) is seeking an Operations Director to lead Auchingarrich Wildlife Park. This role involves ensuring animal welfare, driving conservation initiatives, and managing a dedicated team. The successful candidate will play a key role in enhancing visitor engagement and supporting wildlife preservation efforts.

Benefits

Company events

Discounted or free food

Employee discount

Store discount

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in animal welfare and wildlife conservation.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing a small, hands-on team.
• Strong background in fundraising and event coordination.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the welfare of all animals, ensuring compliance with standards.
• Lead educational programs and promote wildlife awareness.
• Manage a dedicated team and coordinate fundraising initiatives.

Skills

Animal Welfare

Wildlife Conservation

Leadership

Fundraising

Financial Management

Communication

Job description

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Auchingarrich Wildlife Park

Perthshire Closing date for applications is: 20th Jun 2025

Contact: Alexa Reid ([e-mail]) Sector: Management Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: 38,000 - 42,000

Job Description

About Auchingarrich Wildlife Park and Zoo

Auchingarrich Wildlife Park is Perthshire's only Zoo. It is home to the largest flamboyance of Chilean flamingos, Kangaroos & Wallabies, Lemurs, Asian Shortclaw Otters, Wildcats, and various other species listed on the endangered list. As such, species preservation and conservation are high on our list of priorities. We also focus on education and providing a safe and enriching environment for animals while inspiring visitors through engaging wildlife experiences. As a registered charity, we are committed to fundraising and community involvement to support our mission.

Over the next couple of years, we plan to develop a Scottish Zone that will showcase Scotland's proud animal heritage, featuring iconic native species such as Scottish Wildcats, Capercaillie, Highland Cattle, Pine Martens, Red Foxes, Feral Goats, Red Deer, and Red Squirrels. This exciting addition will allow visitors to experience and appreciate Scotland’s rich wildlife up close while supporting conservation efforts. Alongside this, we also plan to expand our primate and lemur zones, enhancing both their habitats and visitor engagement experiences.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Director of Operations to lead our team, uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, and drive conservation and education initiatives. The successful candidate will have a hands-on approach to management, ensuring the park operates effectively while maintaining excellence in animal care, visitor engagement, and financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Animal Welfare & Conservation: Oversee the welfare of all animals in our care, ensuring compliance with ethical and legal standards. Implement and develop conservation strategies, including supporting our Scottish Zone and primate developments.
• Education & Public Engagement: Lead educational programs and work with external stakeholders to promote wildlife awareness and appreciation.
• Leadership & Team Management: Manage a small, dedicated team, fostering a positive and proactive work environment. Provide training, development, and operational support.
• Fundraising & Events: Coordinate and participate in fundraising initiatives to support the park’s financial goals. Develop and maintain partnerships with donors and sponsors.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure all safety regulations and animal welfare policies are strictly adhered to. Manage risk assessments and create a secure environment for staff, visitors, and animals.
• Financial Management & Budgeting: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and revenue generation to ensure sustainability.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Extensive experience in animal welfare and wildlife conservation.
• Broad experience of both exotic and farm animals.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing a small, hands-on team.
• Strong background in fundraising, event coordination, and charitable initiatives.
• Expertise in financial management, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations within a wildlife park setting.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
  
  

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role in shaping the future of Auchingarrich Wildlife Park and Zoo, making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. The successful candidate will also play a pivotal role in the development of our Scottish Zone and expansion of our primate and lemur areas, helping to create immersive and educational experiences for visitors while strengthening conservation efforts.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £38,000.00-£42,000.00 per year

Benefits

• Company events
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Store discount
  
  

Schedule

• Day shift
• Every weekend
  
  

Apply For This Job

To apply, please send a cv with a cover letter with an overview of your career ambitions over the next five years.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

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