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Executive Zoo Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$111K - $122K/yr

This position is responsible for managing, building, and diversifying Oakland Zoo's base of ... Support the CEO and CCEO in fulfilling their responsibilities to the Board Development Committee ...

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

This position is responsible for managing, building, and diversifying Oakland Zoo's base of ... Support the CEO and CCEO in fulfilling their responsibilities to the Board Development Committee ...

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

This position is responsible for managing, building, and diversifying Oakland Zoo's base of ... Support the CEO and CCEO in fulfilling their responsibilities to the Board Development Committee ...

Partner with the Director of Advancement, VP of Community Relations, Advancement team, and Zoo President & CEO on solicitations Capital Campaign Management * Collaborate with the Director of ...

Partner with the Director of Advancement, VP of Community Relations, Advancement team, and Zoo President & CEO on solicitations Capital Campaign Management * Collaborate with the Director of ...

Landscaper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17/hr

... with the Director of Horticulture & Grounds along with Zoo staff to accomplish the care ... or Executive Directors. QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be at least 21 years old * Must possess a valid ...

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Executive Zoo Director information

What is the difference between Executive Zoo Director vs Zoo Curator?

AspectExecutive Zoo DirectorZoo Curator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in zoology, biology, or related field; leadership experienceUsually holds a degree in zoology, biology, or museum studies; specialized knowledge in animal care
Work EnvironmentOversees entire zoo operations, management, and strategic planningFocuses on animal collection, exhibit development, and research
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large zoos and wildlife parks for executive leadership rolesCommon in zoological institutions and museums for curatorial roles

The Executive Zoo Director is responsible for overall zoo management, strategic planning, and leadership, while the Zoo Curator specializes in animal collection, exhibit design, and research. Both roles require zoological credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Executive Zoo Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Executive Zoo Director jobs? Cities with the most Executive Zoo Director job openings:
What states have the most Executive Zoo Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Zoo Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Executive Zoo Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


John Ball Zoo rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 34 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Chief Executive Officer
**Please refer to application instructions below in order to apply for this position**
Lead the next chapter of one of North America's most dynamic mid-sized zoological institutions.
John Ball Zoo is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is a unique opportunity to build upon more than 135 years of history while leading a nationally recognized, AZA-accredited zoo known for excellence in animal care, conservation, education, guest experience, and environmental stewardship.
The CEO will partner with the Board of Directors and executive leadership team to advance the Zoo's strategic vision, guide implementation of an ambitious 10-year Master Plan, lead a $55 million capital campaign, strengthen community and government partnerships, and ensure
the Zoo's long-term financial sustainability. As the Zoo's chief ambassador, the CEO will cultivate relationships with donors, business and civic leaders, elected officials, and the broader community while fostering a high-performing, mission-driven organizational culture.
The successful candidate will be a visionary, collaborative executive with demonstrated experience leading a complex organization, inspiring teams, building strategic partnerships, and driving organizational growth. Strong financial and operational leadership, experience working with governing boards, and a proven record of fundraising and external relationship building are essential. Experience leading an AZA-accredited zoo, aquarium, or another comparably complex mission-driven organization is strongly preferred.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of one of the Midwest's premier cultural institutions while making a lasting impact on wildlife conservation, education, and the Grand Rapids community.
For complete information about the position, responsibilities, qualifications, and the opportunity to lead John Ball Zoo, please review the full position profile here: John Ball Zoo CEO Position
We are partnering with DHR Global for this search.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to:
Anissa Conner at DHR Global
aconner@dhrglobal.com
Note: No applications will be accepted or reviewed for this position outside of the stated instructions in the link above.

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