Vice President of Animal Care with USA Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

Job Summary

Location: Omaha, Nebraska

About Us:

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, renowned as the #1 Zoo in the United States by USA Today for 2023 and 2024, is the premier attraction in Nebraska. We are committed to maintaining exceptional standards and providing extraordinary experiences for our visitors. We seek a dynamic and visionary Senior Vice President of Animal Care to lead and enhance our renowned animal care programs. This pivotal role will guide the strategic direction and operational excellence of our animal care practices, ensuring the highest standards of animal wellbeing and health while supporting our conservation and species sustainability efforts.

Role Overview:

Reporting directly to President and CEO Luis Padilla, the Senior Vice President of Animal Care will be a key member of the executive leadership team. This leader will oversee a dedicated team of animal care professionals and shape the future of animal programs at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park. The Senior Vice President will drive our mission of engaging, inspiring, and educating guests to be stewards of wildlife through world-renowned exhibits, experiences, and conservation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Executive Leadership:
  • Serve as a vital member of the Zoo’s executive and senior leadership teams, offering strategic advice on animal care and operations.
  • Assume senior leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Zoo President/CEO.
  • Engage with the Board of Directors and foster strong collaborative relationships.
• Strategic Direction:
  • Lead and provide vision for animal care, veterinary services, and welfare at the Zoo and Safari Park.
  • Oversee capital projects, new exhibit construction, and facility renovations.
  • Drive species conservation initiatives in collaboration with conservation and science teams.
• Animal Management:
  • Oversee daily care, management, and veterinary services for the Zoo’s animal collection.
  • Collaborate on a shared animal collection plan with the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park.
  • Implement and manage the institutional species plan, ensuring alignment with the Zoo’s mission.
• Team Oversight:
  • Manage a diverse team of animal care professionals, including curators, veterinarians, and specialists.
  • Lead staff training, development, and career advancement initiatives.
• Policy Development:
  • Develop and enforce policies for species management, acquisition, and disposition.
  • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Collaboration and Recordkeeping:
  • Work with teams in nutrition, reproductive sciences, and conservation to enhance animal welfare.
  • Oversee accurate recordkeeping and adherence to industry standards.
• Project Leadership and Emergency Preparedness:
  • Lead capital projects and exhibit construction.
  • Ensure preparedness for emergencies and oversee emergency response protocols.
• External Relations:
  • Represent the Zoo on local, national, and international boards and engage with media, donors, and partners.

Candidate Profile:

• Knowledge and Experience:
  • Extensive understanding of modern zoological practices and animal welfare.
  • Proven leadership experience in managing complex teams and diverse animal collections.
  • Familiarity with AZA accreditation standards and compliance directives.
• Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, or a related field; advanced degrees (DVM, PhD) preferred.
  • 6-8 years of relevant management experience with a strong track record in leadership roles.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

This position primarily involves office work but requires significant time in an outdoor exotic animal environment subject to various weather conditions and potential risks.

Travel and Remote Work:

Some travel is required for conferences, workshops, and conservation endeavors. While the position allows for some remote work, it is primarily based at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Visa Sponsorship:

Visa sponsorship or special clearances are not specified. Candidates must meet work authorization requirements for the United States.

How to Apply:

For additional information about the role, please contact:

Megan Rachal
Senior Vice President of People and Culture & CHRO
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
megan.rachal@omahazoo.com

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.