<p>Rosamond Gifford Zoo</p> <p>Director</p> <p>About the Role</p> <p>The Director of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a visionary and strategic leader responsible for advancing the Zoo's mission of animal welfare, education, and global conservation. This individual will provide comprehensive oversight of the Zoo's operations, programs, and guest experiences while fostering a dynamic and collaborative culture across all levels of staff, leadership, community and donors.</p> <p>This is a high-impact administrative position that involves leadership of a major municipal zoological park, oversight of exhibit design and maintenance, supervision of a diverse team, and deep engagement with internal and external partners to promote sustainability, education, and conservation excellence.</p> <p>About the Rosamond Gifford Zoo</p> <p>Located in Syracuse, New York, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a nationally recognized AZA-accredited zoo committed to wildlife conservation, education, and family-friendly experiences. Operated by Onondaga County and supported by the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, the zoo is home to over 700 animals and offers enriching programs and exhibits designed to foster a deeper connection between people and the natural world.</p> <p>Key Responsibilities</p> <p>Strategic & Executive Leadership</p> <ul> <li>Develop and execute an inspiring long-term vision aligned with the Zoo's mission and goals. </li><li>Lead and modernize systems, policies, and practices to ensure operational excellence and institutional integrity. </li><li>Serve as a transformative leader cultivating a values-driven, inclusive, and motivated organizational culture. </li></ul> <p>Operations & Administration</p> <ul> <li>Oversee all zoo departments including animal care, education, guest services, public relations, and facilities. </li><li>Supervise and evaluate zoo personnel; recruit and mentor leadership-level staff. </li><li>Oversees and directs Veterinary program including schedules, expenditures related to veterinary animal care and services, and general preparation, planning, and implementation of day-to-day care and welfare of the Zoo's animal collection. </li><li>Maintain a strong, effective working relationship with the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo (FORGZ), including oversight and coordination of areas operated by the FORGZ such as the Education Department, guest engagement programs, and other shared initiatives. Ensure alignment of priorities, goals, and operational expectations between the County and FORGZ. </li><li>Ensure health and safety standards for both animals and guests. </li><li>Conduct regular inspections to maintain and improve buildings, grounds, and exhibits. </li><li>Monitor and control expenditures to stay within budgetary limits. </li></ul> <p>Conservation, Animal Welfare, and Guest Experience</p> <ul> <li>Advocate for the highest standards in animal care, education, and conservation practices. </li><li>Plan animal collections to align with philosophical, educational, and AZA standards. </li><li>Ensure enriching, educational, and inclusive experiences for all Zoo visitors. </li></ul> <p>Financial Management & Development</p> <ul> <li>Collaborate with the Friends of the Zoo to support financial health and long-term sustainability. </li><li>Lead budget planning, capital projects, grant writing, and fundraising strategies. </li><li>Approve all purchases and ensure fiscal accountability through strong oversight systems. </li></ul> <p>External Engagement & Partnerships</p> <ul> <li>Serve as the public face of the Zoo in media, community, and donor engagement. </li><li>Work collaboratively with the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo (FORGZ) to strengthen joint programming, donor relations, education initiatives, and mission-driven guest experiences. Ensure effective partnership, communication, and strategic alignment between the County-operated Zoo and the nonprofit support organization. </li><li>Build and maintain strategic partnerships with civic organizations, educational institutions, corporations, vendors, and nonprofits locally and nationally. </li><li>Promote Zoo programs, exhibits, and conservation efforts through public speaking, publications, and community relations. </li></ul> <p>Governance & Board Relations</p> <ul> <li>Work in partnership with the Friends of the Zoo Board of Directors and the Commissioner of Parks to guide strategic initiatives and operational priorities. </li><li>Present plans, budgets, and reports clearly and regularly to governing entities, including the Onondaga County Legislature, County Executive, and Parks Administrative Office. </li><li>Provide consistent and professional communication and reporting to County leadership, including direct accountability to the Commissioner of Parks. </li><li>Support board development and effective governance practices. </li></ul> <p>Planning & Development</p> <ul> <li>Participate in the planning of capital improvements and facility development. </li><li>Align future development projects with the Zoo's mission and conservation goals. </li><li>Provide data and insights to legislative, budgetary, and planning committees to advocate for the Zoo's operational and capital needs. </li></ul> <p>Qualifications</p> <p>Required Experience</p> <ul> <li>Minimum of 15 years of senior leadership experience in a zoological or similarly complex, mission-driven institution. </li><li>Proven knowledge and application of AZA standards and best practices. </li><li>Must have past experience with elephant care and management. </li><li>Demonstrated success in strategic planning, facility development, and managing multi-disciplinary teams. </li><li>Strong track record in financial oversight, fundraising, grant writing, and public-private partnerships. </li><li>Preferred candidates would have a bachelor's degree or higher in related field. Additional applicable work experience in exchange for a degree. </li></ul> <p>Professional Skills</p> <ul> <li>Deep commitment to conservation, biodiversity, and public engagement. </li><li>Skilled communicator with a strong public presence and ability to speak effectively to diverse audiences. </li><li>Extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, exhibit development, and modern zoo management. </li><li>Strong background in implementing Institutional Collection Planning with multiple taxa in in a zoological setting. </li><li>In depth knowledge and experience in animal training and behavior in order to monitor health, perform routine procedures, and manage animals safely and effectively across all taxa. </li><li>Proven ability to manage and inspire a large staff, navigate complex organizations, and drive transformational change. </li><li>Familiarity with construction, architecture, and engineering principles related to zoo operations and infrastructure. </li><li>Ability to read and understand complex technical literature and present findings in reports and presentations. </li></ul> <p>Desired Attributes</p> <ul> <li>Emotionally intelligent leader with high integrity, humility, and a collaborative spirit. </li><li>Adept at building consensus and fostering inclusive, trust-based work environments. </li><li>Visionary thinker with a hands-on approach and ability to execute bold, innovative plans. </li><li>Passionate advocate for public education and accessible wildlife experiences. </li></ul> <p>How to Apply</p> <p>Interested candidates should submit a resume and detailed cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for the future of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to Parks@ongov.net</p> <p>Rosamond Gifford Zoo</p> <p>1 Conservation Place</p> <p>Syracuse, NY 13204</p> <p>Phone: (315)435-8511</p> <p>Fax: (315)435-8517</p> <p>Visit our website</p>