Zoo Development Manager

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Northern Ireland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading zoological institution in Northern Ireland is seeking a responsible individual to oversee zoo operations, develop strategic plans, and ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in management and operational oversight, with excellent financial acumen. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the economic growth and development of the zoo and its facilities.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic planning and operational management for facilities.
• Proven leadership skills with cross-functional teams.
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of budget management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for zoo growth.
• Manage operational aspects of the zoological gardens.
• Identify commercial opportunities to maximize revenue.

Skills

Strategic planning

Operational management

Team leadership

Financial management

Commercial awareness

Customer service

Education

Degree in management, business, or related field

Job description

Belfast Zoological Gardens

Northern Ireland. Closing date for applications is 8th Dec 2025.

To be responsible to Belfast City Council's Director of Economic Development, this post will be responsible for:

• the development and implementation of strategic plans for zoo growth and improvement, including long‑term proposals for investment and to regularly review zoo strategies and align them with annual business plan objectives and expenditure estimates.
• operational and contractual management of all aspects of the zoological gardens and other facilities and assets. This is to include all management issues relating to animal husbandry; historical buildings and artefacts; horticulture; hospitality and tourism; identifying strategic opportunities for all areas; overseeing catering franchise agreements, procurement and contracts; the upkeep of the surrounding landscapes; and the management and supervision of cross‑functional teams at the location.
• identifying commercial opportunities within the assets by developing new business opportunities to maximise revenue streams and to ensure that assets make optimum contribution to the city’s economic growth and regeneration agenda and to monitor the economic impact of the investment.
• overall development, planning, organisation and management of the zoo and its environs, and to act as champion to maximise the commercial opportunities.
• the management of the zoological gardens and other facilities to ensure that facilities and activities comply with regulation and legislation concerning zoo operation and management, health and safety requirements and customer service standards.
• ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare including animal husbandry, enclosure and habitat maintenance.
• monitor and manage such budgets as are allocated for the discharge of the unit’s functions in accordance with the council’s policies, financial regulations and standing orders, to ensure that the unit’s objectives are met within the budget.
• develop key relationships and strategic partnerships, internal and external, with a range of private, statutory, voluntary and community organisations to facilitate a co‑ordinated approach to the strategic development of the zoo and its environs.
• ensure that new developments in all fields relevant to the zoo and its environs and to make recommendations to the Director of Economic Development, Senior Managers, Elected Members across Council as appropriate.
• accurate and timely production of all required management information for council or committee reports, official returns and for performance measurement, and
• ensuring the highest standards of service delivery, through the effective management of all facilities; the motivation and performance management of staff; ensuring the highest customer service standards, applying all relevant council’s policies concerning a total quality approach.