Purpose of the role
Join ZSL at a pivotal moment in its digital transformation journey. We are embarking on a major upgrade of our Tessitura CRM and ticketing platform, moving from Version 15 to Version 16, with a go‑live target by February 2027. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Tessitura specialist to lead a high‑profile project that will enhance the systems supporting millions of visitors, members and supporters.
As Tessitura Upgrade Project Manager, you will take ownership of the end‑to‑end delivery of the upgrade, driving the project from planning and configuration through testing, deployment and successful adoption. Working closely with stakeholders across the organisation, external consultants and Tessitura, you will ensure the programme is delivered on schedule, with minimal disruption and maximum business benefit.
This is a hands‑on leadership role that combines expert project management with deep Tessitura knowledge. You will be the central point of coordination, bringing together people, processes and technology to deliver a seamless transition to Version 16 and set ZSL up for future success.
Offered as a 10‑month fixed‑term contract, this role provides the chance to make a lasting impact on a critical business system while working with passionate teams dedicated to conservation, science and inspiring people to protect wildlife.
Key responsibilities
- Project Delivery: Lead end‑to‑end delivery of the Tessitura v15–v16 upgrade, ensuring strong project planning, governance, reporting and alignment to operational priorities with minimal business disruption.
- Project Management: Own project management and co‑ordination, including detailed plans, milestones, dependencies, risks, issues and clear escalation to senior stakeholders.
- Business Analysis: Drive business analysis and requirements definition, translating operational needs into clear functional requirements to inform system design and delivery.
- Upgrade Implementation: Manage implementation and transition, including configuration, integrations, data migration, UAT, and go‑live readiness to ensure a smooth move to business as usual.
- Stakeholder Communications: Coordinate stakeholders and change, aligning cross‑functional teams and external partners, and supporting communications, training and user adoption.
About You
- Proven Tessitura expertise, including hands‑on experience delivering a v15–v16 upgrade and strong understanding of system architecture, configuration and operational use.
- Solid project delivery experience, managing plans, risks, dependencies, UAT, defect resolution and training/roll‑out within system implementations.
- Strong business analysis capability, with experience gathering requirements, process mapping and translating needs into system solutions.
- Experience in complex, customer‑facing environments, such as admissions, membership or fundraising, with an understanding of operational impact.
- Effective stakeholder management skills, working across multiple internal teams and external partners (including Tessitura), with strong communication and influencing ability.
- Highly organised and analytical, able to manage multiple workstreams, solve problems, adapt to issues, and clearly translate technical activity into business impact.
Employment Conditions
This role is subject to standard pre‑employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Equal Opportunities
ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of under‑represented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.
Benefits
- Dedicated pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- 25 days annual leave, plus UK bank holidays.
- Wellbeing initiatives and confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
- Life assurance scheme from first day.
- Annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with 30% discount.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Season ticket loan for London‑based employees.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.
Contact Details:
Zoological Society of London Recruitment Team
