New Zealand Manager; Partnerships & Conservation

The role plays a pivotal part in building strong relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders, including ZAA members, government agencies, and partner organisations. You will work to connect shared objectives, advocate for operational efficiencies, and help to drive meaningful conservation outcomes.
Operating in a complex environment with multiple competing priorities, this role requires strong organisational capability, excellent communication and coordination skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and workstreams simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities:

• Execute the ZAA strategy within an Aotearoa New Zealand context, aligning activities with ZAA’s strategic pillars and objectives
• Support and represent the interest of ZAA members in New Zealand
• Build and maintain effective relationships with ZAA members, government agencies, and key external stakeholders
• Facilitate collaboration between stakeholders on aligned objectives and maximise collective impact
• Advocate for operational efficiencies and initiatives that enhance animal welfare, biosecurity and conservation outcomes
• Coordination of national species recovery programmes in conjunction with relevant stakeholders
• Coordinate and manage multiple projects and workstreams concurrently, ensuring timely delivery of outcomes
• Provide clear communication, reporting and updates to relevant ZAA stakeholders
• Identify opportunities, risks and emerging issues affecting ZAA operations in New Zealand and respond proactively

Role Criteria

Essential criteria:

• Tertiary qualification and/or equivalent relevant professional experience
• A strong understanding of progressive zoo / aquarium practices, principles and ethos
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to effectively engage and manage diverse stakeholders
• Sound understanding of national and international legislation relating to animal welfare, biosecurity, conservation and threatened species
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, with the ability to produce clear and accurate documentation and reports
• Knowledge of the principles of small population biology, including experience with relevant software tools such as ZIMS and PMx
• High attention to detail, with a commitment to accuracy and quality
• Demonstrated initiative and the ability to work independently
• Proven capability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines

Please note this role requires full working rights within New Zealand.

What’s on Offer

• The role is based in Wellington, New Zealand, hosted by Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo.
• Diversity makes us stronger, ZAA is an equal opportunity employer
• ZAA is a purpose driven organisation, be part of something bigger – contribute to Australasian biodiversity
• A collaborative, values-led culture that supports continuous improvement and people development
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements – hybrid and flexible hours framework

Please apply with your cover letter and resume by COB 1st of March 2026.
If you would like to learn more ahead of submitting your application, please email us on recruitment@zooaquarium.org.au with the subject line: NZ Manager: Partnerships & Conservation.