CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ZOOS VICTORIA

• Lead a world-renowned organisation
• Deliver a once-in-a-generation growth and development agenda
• Shape the future of conservation, tourism and education for Victoria and beyond

About the organisation

Zoos Victoria is a world-leading conservation organisation and Victorian Government statutory authority operating Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Kyabram Fauna Park. Welcoming more than three million visitors annually, a paid membership base of over 390,000 and caring for over 5,500 animals, the organisation combines a powerful conservation mission with significant commercial scale and community impact. With ambitious plans for growth and a commitment to creating a future rich in wildlife, Zoos Victoria is enhancing its conservation outcomes, visitor experiences and long-term sustainability.

About the role

The Chief Executive Officer will lead a highly regarded organisation at a pivotal moment in its evolution. Responsible for a workforce of approximately 1,000 staff and 800 volunteers across four sites, the CEO will build on recent organisational transformation while delivering an ambitious growth agenda that strengthens conservation impact, visitor engagement and financial sustainability. The CEO will lead major capital development projects, expand revenue and philanthropic support, and foster strong partnerships across government, research, business and the community. As the public face of Zoos Victoria, the CEO will champion the organisation's mission and help shape its future influence and reputation in Australia and internationally.

About you

You are an accomplished CEO or senior executive with experience leading a complex organisation of significant scale. You bring proven strategic leadership, commercial performance and organisational change capabilities, together with the ability to build trusted relationships across government, philanthropy, business and the broader community. With an inclusive and empowering leadership style, you have sound judgement and an ability to translate vision into results. Above all, you have a genuine commitment to impactful public purpose and be inspired by the opportunity to lead an organisation making a lasting contribution to wildlife conservation for future generations.

How to apply

Click ‘apply’ to lodge your CV and concise cover letter, and to view the candidate brief. After reviewing the details, for a confidential discussion contact Sign in to view email or [email protected]. Applications close at 8:00am on 3 August 2026.