Chief Aquarium Operations Officer (CAOO)

The Company is seeking a Chief Aquarium Operations Officer to provide strategic and day-to-day leadership for its core operations and visitor experience. The role oversees animal care, education and guest experience, exhibits, and facilities, setting goals and performance standards while managing a large, complex operating budget. Responsibilities include leading institutional planning, major capital and exhibit projects, facilities and maintenance planning, and programs that advance the organization’s mission. The officer will foster collaboration and continuous improvement, oversee security and emergency preparedness, and promote an inclusive, safe, and engaging experience for visitors, staff, and animals. Candidates should bring exemplary senior management experience in a guest-facing organization, along with complex financial oversight and a record of managing major capital construction, deferred maintenance, and multi-building facilities. Experience developing education programs and overseeing security and crisis response is important; aquarium or zoo experience is an advantage. The role calls for strong communication, emotional intelligence, collaborative leadership, and the ability to navigate change while building trust across teams and stakeholders. A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility is essential.