Job Title: Zoo Site Director Location: Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO) Salary: Circa 100K Closing Date: Friday 11th July 2025 About Us: We re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that s home to more than 37,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We re not just the UK s most popular zoo. We re a major wildlife charity that s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction. The Role: In the newly created role of Zoo Site Director, you will be responsible for the facilitation of the end-to-end experience for our visitors, members, staff, and volunteers, as well as the physical and sustainable development of our zoo and all zoo-owned land. Your work will elevate the visitor experience, provide our employees and volunteers with the best-in-class working environment, enhance operational efficiency, and push boundaries to continue to lead as a national conservation zoo. Key Responsibilities: Shape and drive the zoo s long-term strategic development across the entire 600-acre estate. Develop and implement a bold and future-focused estate strategy, optimising land use, sustainability, and the seamless integration of conservation priorities into the zoo s evolving physical footprint. Ensure that spaces are effectively utilised for operations, strategic growth, and commercial development, supporting the zoo s long-term vision and financial resilience while enhancing visitor experience and conservation impact. Collaborate with the Chief Operating Officer to maximise commercial opportunities across the zoos wider estate where those opportunities align with our strategic and conservation priorities, supporting our ambitious commercial growth and diversification plans. Spearhead the conceptualisation, design, and delivery of next-generation habitats, attractions, and guest areas. Lead and support the Head of Sustainability to deliver the Sustainability Strategy, aiming for carbon net zero by 2030 and zero waste by 2030. Lead and support the Strategic Development Director and FM and Operations Director to ensure the effective planning and execution of major capital projects and excellence in facilities management and operations. Take a holistic lead on all activity planning relating to infrastructure, built environment, animal moves, events programming and any activity within the zoo which impacts on animal welfare or guest experience to ensure a collaborative, seamless approach. Establish and nurture a culture of design thinking, innovation, and conservation. What we re looking for: A passion for the mission of Chester Zoo. Degree or vocational experience equivalent. Substantial senior level experience in visitor or guest experience design. Proven major capital development, construction and project management skills, experience in masterplan development and design. Experience in broad, strategic leadership roles within a similar environment, managing several projects and teams simultaneously. Experience in the facilities management/property and estate management sector with a deep knowledge of customer services, operational excellence and innovation. Expertise in the sustainability challenges both within our industry and more broadly and able to contribute strategic thinking and leadership to this agenda. The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively and cultivate an open, honest culture. An empowering and motivating leadership style and the ability to translate a vision into strategy. What We Offer: 38 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9% Death in service benefit Staff pass for zoo visits and multiple complimentary tickets for friends and family Cycle to work scheme Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme as well as optional private healthcare Discounted gym membership Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops, and more via Perks How to Apply: We re working with Sherrington Associates on this key position. Applications should be made by emailing your CV and cover letter to rob.mckay@sherringtonassociates.co.uk or contact Rob McKay on: T: 44 (0) 1244 310145 M: 44 (0) 7756 195807 Shortlisting of applications and arrangement of interviews will take place while the advert is live, so candidates are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible. We reserve the right to close the advert early. Join us in our fight to prevent extinction.