Zoo Jobs: Executive Director

Executive Director

Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums - Aquariums et Zoos Accrédités du Canada (CAZA/AZAC)

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums - Aquariums et Zoos Accrédités du Canada (CAZA/AZAC) is seeking an experienced association and public affairs executive to lead its organization as Executive Director.

THE ORGANIZATION :CANADA’S ACCREDITED ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS

Founded in 1975, CAZA/AZAC is a charitable organization that represents the nation’s leading zoological parks and aquariums. CAZA/AZAC regulates the only pan-Canadian standards for zoos and aquariums, covering animal welfare, public safety, conservation and science, ethical practices, and public engagement. For more information on the organization, its vision and mission, please visit the website www.caza.ca

THE POSITION :EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Executive Director will promote national recognition of CAZA/AZAC and its members as trusted leaders in contributing to the sustainability of the natural world, whose standards exemplify international best practice in the care of animals and promoting conservation action.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

▪ Guides the strategic direction of the organization, consistent with the vision established by the board of directors.

▪ Establishes and leads an integrated approach to government and community relations, advancing awareness of CAZA/AZAC’s vision, presence, engagement and impact locally, provincially and nationally.

▪ Promotes collaborations among members that enhance the organization’s regional and national presence and influence public policy.

▪ Monitors emerging issues and provides timely strategic information and advice regarding government priorities, public policy, legislation, regulations, accountability requirements, issues, and industry trends, challenges and opportunities.

▪ Fosters strategic working relationships with other industry associations, key agencies and academia to advance CAZA/AZAC objectives.

▪ Acts as principal spokesperson for the organization with media and other stakeholders.

▪ Oversees the operations, planning and budget for CAZA/AZAC, including the coaching and supervision of a small team of professionals.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

▪ Five to seven years of progressive association management experience or a blend of association and other relevant management experience.

▪ Significant experience and proven track record in government relations, advocacy communications, and public affairs.

▪ Significant experience working with member-based organizations, as well as volunteer boards and committees.

▪ Proven track record in issue management and media relations, including in a spokesperson role.

▪ Demonstrated leadership in building and sustaining successful relationships and collaborations with external partners.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

▪ Knowledge and understanding of leadership and management principles as applied to non-profit governance models.

▪ Knowledge and understanding of the working of governments (all levels) as well as public sector decision-making.

▪ Excellent oral presentation and written communication skills.

▪ Industry knowledge or experience would be an asset.

▪ Bilingualism (spoken and written) is considered an asset.

HOW TO APPLY

Please send a copy of your resume with a completed self-assessment (see below) to cazainterimdirector@caza.ca.

Submissions must be received at the above e-mail address no later than end of business day Friday, January 3rd, 2020.

Candidate Self-Assessment -- CAZA/AZAC Executive Director

This self-assessment form is intended to offer you the opportunity to capture, in your own words, the experiences, competencies and values that help to support your candidacy. Please provide supporting statements, highlighting your experience and achievements. Feel free to use as much space as you require.

Section A: Please provide relevant/comparable experiences as they relate to this role.

Section B: Please provide answers to the questions as they relate to your candidacy.

SECTION A - Executive Director Mandates

1. Advocacy and government relations

2. Establishing a visible presence and national profile

3. Governance and Board Relations

4. Member engagement and mobilization

5. Strategic and administrative leadership

SECTION B – About Your Candidacy

1. What is your motivation for pursuing this opportunity?

2. What are your salary/compensation expectations?

3. If successful, when would you be able to start in this new position