At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative interpretation projects that enhance visitor experiences at Chester Zoo.
- Company: Chester Zoo, the UK's most popular attraction outside London.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, flexible working, and discounts on various services.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on how visitors engage with wildlife and conservation.
- Qualifications: Experience in developing exhibitions and managing teams in creative environments.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Interpretation Manager
Join us as Interpretation Manager (Maternity Cover) at Chester Zoo, the most visited attraction outside of London!
This is an exciting period in the organisation’s development, with the recent launch of Heart of Africa last year and exciting new projects on the horizon, there’s lots of opportunities for innovative interpretation and storytelling.
The Interpretation Manager works as a key member of our professional team, taking responsibility for the management of all interpretation across the site, this includes signage, theming (inc. murals, textiles), wayfinding, soundscapes, films and games.
They must have an eye for detail, high standards and maintain the quality our visitors deserve.
Interpretation has the potential to educate, to enhance visitor experience and to empower visitors to live more sustainably.
No two days are alike in this dynamic, creative role; one day you might be creating a scheme of giraffe focussed signage and films, and the next, developing new wayfinding solutions.
Responsibilities
- Skilfully manage a range of differing priorities and projects, using excellent organisational skills.
- Manage internal team members and external contractors professionally.
- Ensure all interpretation, including signage, theming, interactives, digital, models, and artwork is produced to a high standard, is safe and accessible, and aligns with the zoo’s core messaging and mission.
Benefits
- This is a fixed term contract (maternity cover) for approx 12 months
- 40 hours per week, usually Monday – Friday, but occasionally weekend working is required
- Potential for some home working
- 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days
- Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
- Cycle to work scheme
- Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
- Discounted gym membership
- Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
- Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%
Qualifications
- Substantial experience developing exhibitions and interpretive schemes in a zoo, aquarium, museum, gallery, or similar environment is essential.
- Strong people management skills - supervising a team and managing the work of others.
- Substantial experience managing projects, with demonstrable experience of time management, managing budgets, administration, and planning skills.
Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, meeting deadlines and ensuring appropriate quality control.
- Knowledge of legislation and best practice guidance as it applies to the development of interpretation, including copyright, DDA, health and safety, CDM and GDPR.
- An eye for design and a creative approach to interpretation and communicating with zoo visitors.
Attention to detail and excellent copy writing skills, alongside the ability to write for a broad range of audiences is essential.
- Audience focused approach, demonstrated through experience in a customer focused environment and understanding of audience segmentation and developing interpretation for different audiences.
- Experience commissioning and contracting designers, artists, builders, and other contractors.
- Strong IT skills: Skilled in the use of all key Microsoft packages and use of digital technologies for public engagement.
- Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work under own initiative and as part of a team, to work under pressure and to collaborate with various stakeholders across the zoo and beyond.
Desirable Qualifications
- A formal qualification with an interpretation element such as a Museum Studies MA is desirable.
- A working knowledge of conservation and/ or zoology.
This could be demonstrated by a Zoology or Biological Science degree and/or experience of working within a zoo, conservation organisation or similar environment.
Alternatively, the post holder could have a strong understanding of exhibitions and interpretation from museums, galleries, or alternative collections and/ or a relevant degree.
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Interpretation Manager (Maternity Cover) in Chester employer: Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and the growth of its employees. As a Food & Beverage Supervisor, you will not only lead a passionate team in delivering outstanding guest experiences but also benefit from competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive healthcare plan, all while working in a unique and inspiring environment dedicated to conservation and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interpretation Manager (Maternity Cover) in Chester
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
✨Tap into Nonprofit Networks
Use platforms like Idealist or local nonprofit job boards to find temporary gigs. These spaces are buzzing with opportunities specifically tailored for social impact projects, making it easier for us to spot the ideal role at companies like Chester Zoo!
✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Chester Zoo that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Interpretation Manager (Maternity Cover) in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Chester Zoo. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Chester Zoo.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Chester Zoo!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Zoo
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Chester Zoo resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Interpretation Manager (Maternity Cover) position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
