Executive Leader, Aquarium Operations & Guest Experience

Monterey Bay Aquarium; Monterey (CA); On-site; USD 300,000 - 375,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits package

Job summary

Monterey Bay Aquarium seeks a strategic Chief Aquarium Operations Officer (CAOO) to lead core operations and on-site experiences, reporting to the CEO and guiding four VP-level leaders. The role oversees a $40M+ annual capital program, manages a multi-hundred-million dollar operating budget, and sustains high standards in animal care, education, facilities, and guest experience.

The CAOO will champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility while fostering collaboration across divisions

Qualifications

• Exemplary senior management experience at a guest-facing organization with complex financial oversight.
• Experience managing major capital construction and deferred maintenance programs.
• Track record in developing and implementing education programs.
• Collaborative leader who builds strong teams and drives continuous improvement.
• Experience in security and crisis management; clear communicator with stakeholders.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment and align with organizational values.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Aquarium's core operations and on-site experiences.
• Oversee a multi-hundred-million dollar operating budget and capital program execution.
• Lead four VP-level reports and a total team of 300+ staff with accountability for performance and safety.
• Drive integration and efficiency across divisions while upholding mission priorities.
• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and inclusion across the organization.

Skills

Executive leadership

Financial oversight

Capital construction management

Education program development

Security & crisis management

DEI & inclusion

Cross-team collaboration

Board communications

Job description

Monterey Bay Aquarium seeks a strategic Chief Aquarium Operations Officer (CAOO) to lead core operations and on-site experiences, reporting to the CEO and guiding four VP-level leaders. The role oversees a $40M+ annual capital program, manages a multi-hundred-million dollar operating budget, and sustains high standards in animal care, education, facilities, and guest experience.

The CAOO will champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility while fostering collaboration across divisions