Blackpool Zoo
North West Closing date for applications is: 11th Oct 2026
Contact: Leah Lancashire (leah.lancashire@blackpoolzoo.org.uk) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: Competitive
Location: Blackpool Zoo
Salary: Competitive plus 15% Annual Bonus
Hours: Full-time, including weekends and public holidays
Contract type: Permanent
About Us
Blackpool Zoo is one of the UK's leading medium-sized zoos, welcoming more than 500,000 visitors each year. Home to a diverse collection of species and a strong commitment to conservation, education and animal welfare, the zoo continues to evolve through significant investment in facilities, visitor experiences and animal habitats. Part of the Parques Reunidos group, one of Europe's largest leisure and attraction operators, Blackpool Zoo has undergone substantial development in recent years and has ambitious plans for the future. We are now seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to join our senior leadership team as Head of Animal Operations.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Zoo Director, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the Animal Department, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health and safety, operational performance and visitor engagement are maintained across the zoo. This is a senior management position with responsibility for the overall performance of the department, including financial management, workforce planning, compliance, operational delivery and the development of future departmental strategies. Working closely with the Head of Mammals and other key stakeholders throughout the organisation, you will ensure the department remains efficient, progressive and fully aligned with the zoo's conservation, educational and commercial objectives. You will also fulfil the role of Animal 1 when on duty and provide leadership during operational incidents, emergencies and other business-critical situations.
About You
We are looking for a motivated and forward-thinking leader with substantial experience within a zoological, animal management, visitor attraction or similar environment. You will have a proven track record of leading large teams, manage operational performance and successfully deliver departmental objectives within a complex organisation. You should be confident making decisions in demanding situations, whilst maintaining a practical and supportive leadership style.
The Successful Candidate Will Demonstrate
- Significant senior management experience within a zoo, animal collection, visitor attraction or similar operational environment.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Experience of budget preparation, financial planning and resource management.
- A sound understanding of health and safety legislation, compliance and operational risk management.
- Knowledge of UK zoo licensing requirements and current zoo industry standards.
- Excellent communication, organisational and report-writing skills.
- The ability to build effective relationships across multiple departments.
- Experience managing operational change and continuous improvement initiatives.
- A commitment to delivering outstanding standards of animal welfare and visitor experience.
- Firearms experience and certification, or a willingness to undertake the necessary training and obtain the appropriate licence required for the zoo's firearms operations.
Desirable
- Experience delivering capital projects and major developments.
- Experience in zoo exhibit design and development.
- Experience of managing Cat 1 species.
- Experience leading emergency response and incident management activities.
- Knowledge of collection planning and zoological population management.
What We Offer
In addition to a competitive salary, Blackpool Zoo offers:
- Company performance bonus scheme (15% of basic salary).
- Subsidised on site 2 Bedroom flat
- Medical and life insurance.
- Generous staff benefits package.
- Complimentary and discounted entry to Parques Reunidos parks and attractions.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
- The opportunity to play a key role in the future development of one of the UK's most respected zoological collections.
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Head of Animal Operations employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Activate Learning is an exceptional employer that values the passion and dedication of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where teamwork and professional growth are at the forefront. Located in the picturesque Surrey countryside, employees benefit from a vibrant environment that fosters learning and development, alongside opportunities to engage with a diverse animal collection. With a commitment to high standards of animal welfare and education, Activate Learning provides a meaningful and rewarding career for those looking to make a difference in the animal industry.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
