Deputy Head of Wildlife

Deputy Head of Wildlife
Location: West Midlands
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Rota-based, including weekends and bank holidays (364-day operation)
Do you have a passion for wildlife, proven leadership in zoological collections, and a drive to elevate animal welfare and guest experience? This is a rare and exciting opportunity to take on a senior leadership role in wildlife management at one of the UK’s leading wildlife attractions.
About the Role As Deputy Head of Wildlife, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of all animal habitats, ensuring the highest standards of welfare, safety, compliance, and visitor experience. Working closely with the Head of Wildlife and Senior Leadership Team, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the animal collection, conservation efforts, and guest engagement strategies.
You will lead the Wildlife and Veterinary teams, supporting professional development, fostering a collaborative culture, and ensuring compliance with zoo licensing, health and safety, and wider ESG goals. You’ll also contribute to strategic planning for animal habitats, collection development, and operational innovation.
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and support Wildlife and Veterinary teams, ensuring excellence in animal care and staff performance
• Maintain and monitor zoo licensing and compliance requirements
• Collaborate on wildlife budgeting, project planning, and capex proposals
• Oversee animal habitats and guest safety, particularly across Safari-Drive and walk-through areas
• Ensure effective coordination of maintenance, gardening, and operational schedules
• Build strong relationships with external zoological and conservation bodies
• Champion continuous improvement, education, sustainability, and biodiversity initiatives
• Monitor and develop team training, performance, and resource planning

About You Essential Requirements:

• Degree in Animal Management or related discipline
• Proven managerial/supervisory experience in a zoological setting
• Hands-on experience working with a variety of taxa
• Strong understanding of animal welfare, conservation, and compliance standards
• Excellent people management, organisational and communication skills
• Ability to manage complex priorities in a dynamic environment

Desirable:

• DMZAA qualification
• Experience with zoo licensing and compliance
• Health and safety knowledge within a zoological setting
• Firearms team experience (desirable but not essential)

You will be a clear and calm leader with the ability to positively influence a diverse team and maintain a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. A flexible approach to work and the ability to manage conflicting priorities are essential.
Why Join Us? You’ll be joining a passionate and progressive team committed to conservation, education, and delivering unforgettable experiences. This is an opportunity to be part of a values-led organisation focused on collaboration, sustainability, and animal welfare, while offering career development and the chance to make a tangible impact.