San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is a well-known nonprofit organization dedicated to wildlife conservation and inspiring a love for nature. With two iconic wildlife destinations, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the Alliance attracts millions of guests annually and manages a global portfolio of conservation projects. The organization's workforce of 3,000 team members and 2,000 volunteers work together to care for over 15,000 rare and endangered animals and 2 million plants across immersive ecosystems. SDZWA collaborates with over 200 partners and leads initiatives in species recovery and public education, shaping the future of conservation through innovation and inspiration.
The client, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA), is seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who is passionate about global conservation efforts and possesses strong leadership skills. The CEO will be responsible for developing and executing a clear vision that aligns with SDZWA's mission, modernizing systems, and ensuring operational excellence. This individual will oversee all operational, financial, and administrative functions, fostering a values-driven culture and prioritizing initiatives based on impact and sustainability. Additionally, the CEO will lead fundraising efforts, build partnerships, and strengthen SDZWA's voice in national and international conservation efforts.
The ideal candidate for the CEO position at SDZWA will have a deep curiosity for wildlife and science, along with the ability to inspire trust and unity among diverse stakeholders. This individual must demonstrate strategic leadership, executive management skills, and a commitment to external engagement and partnerships. The CEO will play a key role in driving financial sustainability, fundraising growth, and organizational excellence through empowerment, innovation, and collaboration, while working closely with the Board of Trustees to expand SDZWA's reach and impact.