Senior Vice President of External Affairs

In partnership with the President/CEO, the SVP will lead and oversee all external affairs related to marketing, community engagement, government relations, philanthropy, and communications to position the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for expansion and innovation; enhancement of local and national role to meets its mission; and to maintain its reputation as one of the leading Zoo’s in the nation.

• Directs and oversees all areas within Marketing, Communications, Governmental Affairs, Community Relations, and Philanthropy Departments including but not limited to fundraising strategies, corporate partnerships, and sponsorships; internal/external communications and publications; public/media relations and advertising, ensuring consistent messaging. 
• Coordinates with leaders of membership and group sales to ensure consistent messaging. 
• Directs the Vice Presidents of the Communications & Marketing and Philanthropy Departments and is responsible for their accountability to reach those department’s respective goals.
• Manages relationships with high-capacity donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations, and other funders, to secure support for the Zoo’s annual operations, capital needs, and endowment through various giving mechanisms.
• Provide advice and counsel to the President/CEO of the Zoo in developing short and long-term engagement goals, which meet the day-to-day operation and needs of the Zoo as well as the Zoo’s Framework (master plan).
• Hire and train; plan, assign and review work; monitor job performance and complete performance reviews; recommend training and development as necessary; recommend disciplinary actions as appropriate and prepare formal long-range plans of department employees.
• Establish and allocate department budget.
• Represent the Zoo at meetings and public events.
• Act as Director on Duty as assigned by the President/CEO.
• Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club and The Wilds.
• Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Experience Required

• B.A. in business administration or related field required.
• Master’s degree in business administration or related field preferred.
• Seven to ten years’ experience in fundraising development required, CFRE preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required. Seven to ten years proven leadership skills and abilities required.
• Effective, engaging communicator. Ability to establish meaningful relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Knowledge of computers and a variety of software required.
• Ability to travel required.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays required.
• Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner and without direct supervision required.
• Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding our ‘Make it G.R.E.A.T.’ guest service standards required.
• Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo team members and contacts regarding company business required.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required. Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required.
• Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment required.
• Ability to successfully complete a credit and criminal history background check required. Apply for this job online Email this job to a friend Share on your newsfeed Application FAQs

Perks

• Our mission at the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks is EMPOWERING PEOPLE. SAVING WILDLIFE. When you are a part of our full-time Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team, you are helping us achieve that mission!
• We offer competitive wages, paid time off, excellent benefits including covered premiums for vision, dental, basic life, and disability insurance, and OPERS retirement. Did we mention the perks?
• Company provided tuition reimbursement, Zoo family membership, free admission, and discounts at all our parks, team member appreciation events, wellness program, and more.
• Plus, as a nonprofit organization, our employees can take advantage of the student loan forgiveness through the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Salary

• $193,600 to $240,000