Chief Executive

2 days ago

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand ATCL Search Full time NZ$120,000 - NZ$180,000 per year
  • World leading conservation organisation
  • Award winning facilities, significant growth potential
  • Opportunity for innovation and impact

Mō mātou | About Us

This is a rare chance to lead a globally recognised conservation and animal welfare organisation at the forefront of animal welfare, sustainability, and progressive zoo practice.  With record visitation, a 20-year Master Plan ready for execution, and deep partnerships spanning local communities to international conservation networks, the Chief Executive will shape the future of a beloved institution with genuine impact.

Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo maintains 500+ animals across 100+ species (including 32 threatened species), operates award-winning facilities including Te Kōhanga The Nest veterinary hospital, and delivers 15 active field conservation projects across New Zealand and globally.  

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

You will provide strategic and operational leadership across all aspects of the Zoo's mission: exceptional animal welfare, measurable conservation outcomes, inclusive community engagement, and financial sustainability.  This requires translating vision into action while navigating climate change, biodiversity loss, and evolving visitor expectations.  You will inherit a strong platform for conservation leadership, a dedicated team, and a community that cares deeply about this organisation's future.

Key accountabilities include:

  • Delivering the Master Plan and conservation strategy alongside operational excellence in animal welfare, visitor experience, and safety.
  • Building and maintaining partnerships with mana whenua, Wellington City Council, donors, conservation organisations, and the global zoo community.
  • Driving commercial growth through admissions, memberships, visitor experiences, events, retail, and philanthropic fundraising.
  • Leading a team of 120+ staff with a focus on wellbeing, professional development, and values-led culture.
  • Acting as national and international advocate for wildlife protection and progressive zoo practice.

Ko wai koe | About you

You are a strategic, values-driven leader with proven success in complex mission-driven organisations.  You combine conservation and/or tourism attraction expertise with commercial acumen and stakeholder credibility.

Essential experience and attributes:

  • Significant CEO or senior leadership experience, ideally in zoos.  Experience in aquarium, conservation, tourism, cultural, or related sectors will also be considered.
  • Demonstrated ability to generate commercial revenue and grow diverse income streams while staying true to our conservation and animal welfare values.
  • A track record of securing philanthropic support, sponsorships, and grant funding.
  • Exceptional stakeholder management across government, community, iwi, and international networks.
  • Financial literacy and experience managing budgets, assets, and risk in multi-revenue organisations.
  • Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnerships and culturally responsive leadership.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

For a copy of the information pack please email Amy Tea at

To apply, please email your cover letter and CV to

Applications close Wednesday, 17 December 2025.

You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand to apply for this job.

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