Interpretation Manager

Full time, permanent contract

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 20,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an

extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

The Role – Interpretation Manager

We now have an exciting role for an outstanding Interpretation Manager. Reporting to the Senior

Interpretation Manager, you’ll deliver a range of imaginative interpretation schemes that will have a significant impact on how 2 million visitors experience Chester Zoo and their understanding of the conservation work that we do.

We’re looking for someone who can:

· Ensure all interpretation is produced to a high standard and in line with the zoo’s core mission, brand strategy and messaging, including signage, interactives, AV, digital installations, models, artwork, trails, theming and play-based interventions.

· Ensure that opportunities to achieve conservation impact are maximised by connecting visitors with nature and empowering them to live sustainably in the most accessible and appealing ways.

· Lead on the development of storylines and concepts for new schemes, create content, oversee design, and ensure safe and effective installation and maintenance of all elements.

· Work collaboratively and influence colleagues across the organisation and externally to achieve these objectives.

· Manage, support, and motivate staff and contractors to deliver interpretation projects efficiently, within budget and on programme.

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of nearly 500 permanent and 500 seasonal team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

The Package

· Permanent contract, 40 hours per week

· Option for some home working

· A salary of £34,458.07 per annum

· Working is predominantly Monday to Friday but occasional weekend and out of hours working may be required for which time off in lieu will be given.

· 33 days annual leave

· Access to healthcare plan

· Employer contributory pension scheme

· Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends

Our requirements – Interpretation Manager

· Substantial experience developing exhibitions, exhibits and interpretive schemes in a zoo, aquarium, museum or similar environment is essential.

· Experience commissioning and managing designers, artists, builders and other contractors.

· Attention to detail and excellent copy writing skills, alongside the ability to write for a broad range of audiences is essential.

· Audience focused approach, demonstrated through understanding of audience segmentation, and developing interpretation for different types of audiences.

· An eye for design and a creative approach to interpretation and communicating with visitors.

· IT skills: Skilled in the use of all key Microsoft packages, design software and use of digital technologies for public engagement.

· Knowledge of legislation and best practice guidance as it applies to the development of interpretation, including copyright, DDA, health and safety, CDM and GDPR.

· Experience leading and managing projects with demonstrable project management skills and knowledge.

· Excellent time management, administration and planning skills. Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, meeting deadlines and ensuring appropriate quality control.

· Experience of managing the work of others.

· Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively under own initiative and as part of a team, to work under pressure with positive attitude and also to enthuse and engage others. The role requires the post holder to work extensively across different departments and with external colleagues, an empathetic approach and ability to understand a variety of different viewpoints is essential.

· Our values are to be mission motivated, passionate people, working together, to be the best. The post holder will need to be able to clearly demonstrate these values in their own behaviours and support them in the teams they work with.

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

· A working knowledge of and demonstrable interest in conservation issues and zoology.

· A formal qualification with an interpretation element.

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.

How to apply

To apply for this position, please go to Chester Zoo | Jobs | Search here for your perfect career (jobtrain.co.uk). Initially you will need to create an account.. Then please follow the on-screen instructions. If you have any questions, please contact a member of the People team at recruitment@chesterzoo.org

PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION FOR POSTING OUT YOUR VACANCY.

It will be greatly appreciated as I am semi retired and have had no regular income for over two years.

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