Zoo Operations Manager in London

Zoo Operations Manager in London

London Full-Time 53460 - 56730 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
B

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage zoo operations, ensuring animal welfare and facility excellence.
  • Company: Belfast Zoo, a vibrant and engaging environment for wildlife lovers.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Lead a passionate team and make a difference in animal care and visitor experience.
  • Qualifications: Experience in management and a passion for wildlife and conservation.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to creating memorable experiences for visitors.

The predicted salary is between 53460 - 56730 £ per year.

Closing date for applications is: 8th Apr 2026

Contact: Employee Resourcing Team (jobs@belfastcity.gov.uk)

Sector: Management

Type: Paid

Contract type: Full-time

Salary: £53,460 - £56,730 per annum

To report to the Zoo Development Manager, this post will be responsible for:

  • the operational and contractual management of all aspects of the zoological gardens and other facilities and assets
  • 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
  • the management and supervision of cross‐functional teams at the location
  • assisting with the overall development, planning, organisation and management of the zoo and its environs
  • acting as champion to maximise the commercial opportunities
  • supporting the Zoo Development Manager in the management of the zoological gardens and other facilities to ensure compliance 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
  • assisting with the monitoring and management of budgets allocated for the discharge of the unit's functions in accordance with the council's policies, financial regulations and standing orders
  • assisting the Zoo Development Manager in the production of accurate and timely management information for council or committee reports, official returns and for performance measurement
  • 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

Applications must be submitted online before 12 midnight on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.

Zoo Operations Manager in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

Belfast Zoo is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where passion for animal welfare and conservation meets professional growth. With a commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive culture, staff are encouraged to thrive in their roles while contributing to the zoo's mission of providing outstanding care for animals and engaging experiences for visitors. Located in the scenic surroundings of Northern Ireland, employees enjoy a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant community dedicated to wildlife preservation and education.
B

Contact Detail:

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Zoo Operations Manager in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the zoo and wildlife management sector. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the zoo's operations and recent developments. Show your passion for animal welfare and management. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role but also genuinely care about the mission of the zoo.

Tip Number 3

Practice your interview skills with friends or family. Get comfortable talking about your experience in managing teams and projects. The more you rehearse, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine!

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the application process closely.

We think you need these skills to ace Zoo Operations Manager in London

Operational Management
Contract Management
Animal Husbandry
Horticulture Management
Hospitality Management
Strategic Planning
Procurement
Budget Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Customer Service Standards
Team Management
Performance Management
Regulatory Compliance
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Zoo Operations Manager role. We want to see how you can manage all aspects of the zoo and bring your unique skills to the table!

Showcase Your Passion: Let your love for animals and zoo management shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but also genuinely excited about making a difference in the zoo environment.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences are easy to spot and understand.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details correctly and can get back to you as soon as possible.

How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

Know Your Zoo Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you research Belfast Zoo thoroughly. Understand its history, current operations, and any recent developments. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions about how you can contribute to the zoo's mission.

Showcase Your Management Skills

Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing teams and projects. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led cross-functional teams or improved operational efficiency. Highlight your ability to motivate staff and ensure high standards of service delivery.

Understand Animal Welfare Standards

Since the role involves ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, brush up on relevant regulations and best practices in animal husbandry. Be ready to discuss how you would implement these standards and manage compliance within the zoo.

Prepare Questions for Them

Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the zoo's future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in their operations. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in the organisation's growth and impact.

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>