Curator of Mammals – Zoological Society of London
Posted: 7 April 2022 | Full-Time | London, United Kingdom | Application Deadline: 8 May 2022
Overview
We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.
Role Profile
ZSL has a new opportunity for a Curator of Mammals to work in collaboration with the second Curator of Mammals to lead the strategic and operational management of mammal species at ZSL. The curatorial team lead the strategic management of species at ZSL including both ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade zoo. Species planning is coordinated through a multiyear plan which provides a strategic, objective, and documented evaluation of the species with a clear explanation for why we keep each species within ZSL’s three priority areas: Wildlife & People, Wildlife Back from the Brink, and Wildlife Health. The curatorial team undertake a leading role in implementing the species plan, including species recovery through in-situ and ex-situ conservation actions, undertaken in conjunction with all ZSL directorates and through collaborative working with internal and external expertise.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain the ZSL mammal species plan, using the Species Planning Tool (SPT), ZSL Vision Purpose & Priorities and Zoo Propositions as a framework, to be achieved in collaboration with ZSL Science, Conservation & Policy, and Zoo & Engagement directorates.
- Ensure that the species plans contribute to long term survival of identified species of conservation importance.
- Lead and support work to achieve recovery of highly threatened mammal species through collaboration and cooperation with all ZSL directorates.
- Promote mammal husbandry, research, and conservation expertise at all ZSL sites and within the global zoo community.
- Support the Chief Curator in capital site and exhibit planning.
- Ensure ZSL provides the highest welfare standards and quality of life for animals through excellent protocols for the care of the species in ZSL’s mammal departments.
- Advising the Animal Operations Managers and Wildlife Health Services on appropriate training and development for staff in areas related to mammal care and welfare.
Person Specification
- Broad mammal taxonomic experience and expertise with a track record of excellent mammal care and husbandry planning and implementation.
- Excellent collaborative & cooperative working style, with experience in communicating effectively at senior and board level including the ability to constructively challenge at the strategic level.
- Proven ability to work with colleagues at all levels and teams across various disciplines and locations.
- Population management understanding and experience for animals.
- Exhibit design and development experience.
- Experience in developing and delivering impactful mammal conservation and research projects.
- Be able to mentor and teach students / early-stage conservation biologists.
- Proven ability to write detailed reports, strategic documents, policies and procedures.
Please find the full job description here.
What do we offer?
You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program as well as regular webinars and activities around mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing. The opportunity to be part of an organisation that is committed to improving diversity and inclusion.
Other benefits include 25 days holiday, life assurance, stakeholder pension (employer contribution is matched up to 12%), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidised canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, discounted gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning.
Ultimately, you’ll know that you’ll help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.
To Apply
Applicants will need to upload their CV plus a covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the “Apply for this job online” button. If you have any queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.
Closing date for applications: Midnight Sunday 8th May 2022
The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.
