Zoo Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the Friends of the Zoo and is responsible for advancing the Zoo’s mission through visionary leadership, operational excellence, community engagement, and financial stewardship. This position oversees all administrative, fundraising, marketing, financial, human resources, and strategic planning functions of the Friends organization in collaboration with Zoo leadership, the Board of Directors, community stakeholders, and county leadership.

The Executive Director will foster an inclusive, mission-driven culture that values teamwork, innovation, accountability, and strong community partnerships while supporting the Zoo’s long-term sustainability and growth.

Reporting Relationship

Reports To: President and Board of Directors, Friends of the Zoo

Direct Reports

The Executive Director directly supervises:

Director of Human Resources

Director of Finance

Director of Marketing and Communications

Director of Education

Director of Food and Beverage

Director of Philanthropy

Director of Development

Membership Manager

Gift Shop Manager

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Organizational Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Friends of the Zoo organization in alignment with the Zoo’s mission, vision, and long-term goals.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate strategic initiatives in partnership with the Zoo Director and Board of Directors.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture that supports employee engagement, innovation, volunteerism, and professional growth.
• Lead organizational planning efforts and ensure operational priorities support long-term sustainability and community impact.
• Serve as a visible and engaged ambassador for the Zoo throughout the community and regionally.
• Promote a culture of accountability, communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all departments.

Financial Management & Operational Oversight

• Oversee all financial operations of the Friends organization, including budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and revenue generation strategies.
• Prepare and present annual operating budgets in collaboration with the Finance Committee and Board of Directors.
• Ensure sound fiscal management practices and achievement of organizational financial objectives.
• Identify and implement opportunities for earned revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and entrepreneurial initiatives that support the organization’s mission.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including maintaining the organization’s 501(c)(3) status.
• Oversee organizational policies, procedures, and operational standards to ensure effective and efficient operations.

Fundraising, Development & Community Engagement

• Lead and support all fundraising initiatives, including annual giving, membership development, grants, sponsorships, capital campaigns, donor cultivation, and special events.
• Develop and execute comprehensive short- and long-term fundraising strategies to sustain and grow organizational impact.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, community partners, public officials, and key stakeholders.
• Partner with staff and volunteers to identify and pursue grant opportunities and additional funding sources.
• Serve as a compelling spokesperson and advocate for the Zoo and Friends organization through public speaking, media engagement, and community outreach activities.
• Strengthen the organization’s visibility and reputation within the community and industry.

Human Resources & Team Leadership

• Provide leadership, coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for staff and leadership team members.
• Oversee organizational staffing, recruitment, performance management, employee relations, and succession planning efforts.
• Approve hiring, disciplinary actions, and terminations in accordance with organizational policies and employment laws.
• Support the development of high-performing teams within a collaborative and mission-focused environment.
• Ensure volunteers are effectively engaged, supported, recognized, and aligned with the Zoo’s mission and goals.

Board & Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain strong and transparent communication with the Board of Directors regarding organizational operations, strategic priorities, and emerging issues.
• Support Board development, committee engagement, and governance initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with Zoo leadership, Onondaga County leadership, community stakeholders, and partner organizations.
• Provide regular updates to members, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders regarding organizational initiatives, accomplishments, and goals.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend and participate in Board meetings, committee meetings, leadership meetings, and organizational events as required.
• Lead regular meetings with directors and managers to support communication, accountability, and organizational alignment.
• Maintain appropriate professional memberships and affiliations, including AZA and other relevant industry organizations.
• Ensure adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and Zoo protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the organization’s mission and operations.

Qualifications & Preferred Experience

• Demonstrated senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, operations, public administration, or a related field.
• Proven success in strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, and team leadership.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams within a collaborative environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines effectively.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, compliance, and 501(c)(3) operations preferred.
• Grant writing and grant management experience preferred.
• Passion for the mission of zoological, educational, conservation, and community-based organizations.

Education Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, communications, finance, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

Position Details

This is a full-time, on site, exempt position.

Evening, weekend, and event attendance may be required based on organizational needs.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of criminal background and driver history checks.

Friends of the Zoo is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all employees, volunteers, and community members.