Head of Zoo Operations

Ready to lead the future of Chessington Zoo and SEA LIFE Centre as our Head of Zoo Operations? In this role you'll lead all aspects of our Zoo and SEA LIFE operation, ensuring exceptional standards in animal welfare, husbandry, conservation, education and guest experience. Working with a talented team of animal experts and leaders, you'll create an environment where both animals and people can thrive.

You'll be responsible for setting the direction of the operation, ensuring compliance with zoo licensing requirements and industry standards while driving continuous improvement in welfare, safety and operational performance. You'll lead and develop a high-performing team, oversee budgets and strategic plans and work closely with the Resort Leadership Team to shape the future development of the Zoo.

Safety and emergency preparedness are a key part of the role. You'll lead zoo emergency planning, support incident management across the Resort and play an active role in ensuring colleagues are trained, prepared and operating to the highest standards.

You'll also oversee the delivery of engaging animal experiences and educational programmes, using guest feedback and operational insight to continually enhance the experience while supporting Chessington's conservation and education objectives.

This is a full-time role, working a flexible pattern across 5 days out of 7, including weekends, bank holidays and participation in duty management and emergency response rotas.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree qualified or extensive experience in Zoology or Animal Management.
• Experience of aquatic management desired but not essential.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the Secretary of States Standards of Modern Zoo Practice.
• Be experienced (or willing to train) in the use of firearms (including tranquilizer) for emergency and routine use.
• Experience managing and developing a team.
• Confident communicator.
• Resource management and budget planning: a clear understanding of cost drivers and efficiently managing resources.

Benefits

• 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants.
• 40% off LEGO online.
• Merlin Magic Pass - giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year.
• Private Medical Insurance (single cover).
• Enjoy the Ride Pass – giving you and 5 others a Merlin Annual Pass (Gold Edition).
• X2 volunteer days a year.
• Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world.
• Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets.

Sound like your next adventure? Apply now and be part of our incredible world. If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at recruitment@merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pay Range

Competitive