Dana Brown President and CEO Vacancy – Saint Louis Zoo

Posted: 10 May 2021   |   Full-Time   |  St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America

Background

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks the next Dana Brown President & CEO (President, Chief Executive Officer, CEO) to lead the Zoo at a time of financial and operational strength, as well as great potential. The CEO will provide the vision and strategy to guide an organization already established as a frontrunner in conservation and visitor experience that draws nearly 3 million attendees annually and is the most-visited attraction in the region. As the world’s first municipally supported zoo, Saint Louis Zoo is also one of the few remaining that offers free admission to the public.

The CEO will be a leader with a global footprint, who builds on Saint Louis Zoo’s existing assets, spearheading all aspects of one of the world’s most important zoological parks and conservation organizations. The institution’s next leader will build on the organization’s highly credible position in a role that extends beyond the boundaries of the Zoo’s historic urban campus. The President will set the vision and strategic direction of the Zoo’s conservation efforts, exercising broad oversight of the Zoo’s global field conservation initiatives and participating in the WildCare Institute’s individual centers and programs. The Chief Executive Officer is also responsible for overseeing the development of the American Red Wolf Recovery Program at the Zoo’s breeding center in Franklin County in association with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. As such, the CEO will have an important platform from which to enhance public understanding, support wildlife conservation through education and advocacy, and effect inspired and lasting change on a global level.

The role

Under the direction of its future chief executive and as articulated in their strategic plan, “Connect. Create. Conserve.,” Saint Louis Zoo aims to grow as a leader in animal welfare, guest experience, wildlife conservation, conservation education, sustainable operations and design, and workplace and volunteer satisfaction, aligning communications plans and technological improvements to support these objectives while ensuring sustainable growth. By achieving the goals set out in the strategic plan, the Zoo will serve as a model for and will advance animal care and welfare, while creating experiences specifically designed to connect people with animals in a profoundly emotional way so that they are inspired to become conservationists.

process

The St. Louis Zoological Park Subdistrict Commission has retained Shelli Herman and Associates, Inc., an executive search firm, to assist in this search. Inquiries, nominations, and applications should be directed to the search firm; all contact will be held in the strictest confidence.

A review of applications will commence immediately. Applications received by July 19, 2021, will be given priority. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit their credentials as soon as possible for full consideration. Complete applications should be submitted electronically via email and should include: a cover letter that articulates a commitment to the mission and outlines relevant experience tied to the job description, and a current resume reflecting all work experience from college forward.

How to Apply

For further information, including the full appointment brief and how to apply, please visit: https://shellihermansearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Saint-Louis-Zoo-President-and-CEO-Position-Specification-SHA.pdf

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.

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