Operations Manager (Zoo)

Location: Emirates Park Zoo & Resort

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary:- Aed 12,000- 15,000

Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the zoo. The role is responsible for ensuring smooth operations, high safety standards, exceptional guest experiences, and efficient coordination across departments. The Operations Manager will lead operational teams, manage resources, control costs, and ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and animal welfare regulations.

This position requires strong leadership, operational excellence, and the ability to work in a dynamic, guest-focused environment.

Operations & Guest Experience

• Oversee all daily zoo operations including guest services, hospitality, maintenance, safety, and cleanliness.
• Ensure smooth operations from opening to closing, managing staffing levels, schedules, and resources.
• Coordinate with departments such as Guest Services, F&B, Maintenance, and Education to deliver a seamless guest experience.
• Handle guest complaints and feedback professionally and implement service improvements.
• Oversee tours, educational programs, events, and activities to enhance visitor engagement.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with health, safety, environmental, and operational regulations.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety across guest areas, facilities, and animal enclosures.
• Oversee emergency preparedness and ensure staff are trained in emergency procedures.
• Ensure compliance with local, national, and international animal welfare and hospitality standards.

People Management

• Lead, motivate, and manage supervisors and front-line operational staff.
• Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and support staff development.
• Prepare duty rosters and assign daily tasks to ensure adequate coverage.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• Resolve operational and staffing issues efficiently and professionally.

Financial & Resource Management

• Develop and manage operational budgets in coordination with the finance team.
• Monitor expenses, manage inventory, and ensure cost control and efficient resource utilization.
• Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify cost-saving and revenue-enhancing opportunities.
• Manage vendor relationships for supplies, services, and maintenance.

Reporting & Strategy

• Prepare and submit regular operational reports to senior management covering performance, guest satisfaction, and staff productivity.
• Assist in developing short- and long-term operational strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Support marketing initiatives, promotions, and special events to drive attendance and customer engagement.

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Health and safety knowledge
• Excellent computer and reporting skills
• Strong presentation and communication abilities
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Ability to communicate effectively in English (verbal and written)

• Bachelor's degree in Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred)
• Minimum 5 years of relevant operations management experience
• Experience in hospitality, leisure attractions, theme parks, zoos, or resorts is highly preferred
• Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and evening events
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• English is mandatory; Arabic is an advantage
• Comfortable working in a multicultural and diverse environment
• Strong judgment, ethical standards, and decision-making abilities
• Ability to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism
• Knowledge of animal care or wildlife management is an advantage