The Animal Health and Welfare Director is responsible in providing direction of and participation in the comprehensive animal health and welfare program.This includes the zoo’s animal population (mammals, fish, reptiles, birds & invertebrates) as well as providing support for any associated Rescue & Rehabilitation program. This position is integral to the direction of the fascility’s high animal welfare standards and to the advancement of the science of animal health. This role is responsible for the management of the animal welfare program and sits within the Strategic Operations Management Office; a Miral Experiences Board.
This position is responsible for all aspects of the animal health and welfare program of the team and associated operations; responsible for developing a high performing and motivated team.
Job Scope:
Responsible for the maintenance and management of all aspects of collection animal health including diagnosis and treatment of disease, preventative medicine programs, the animal welfare program, and nutrition
As part of various programs, oversees medical care of rescued animals.
Responsible for leading of the Animal Health Department annual budget
Shares responsibility for the management of animal rescue program with the Zoological team
Consults and educates the Zoological colleagues and leadership team in areas of health, welfare, and husbandry
Conducts animal health research projects and prepares the results for presentations and peer-reviewed publications
Provides strategic direction and contribution to the planning, organization, and implementation of the Animal Health and Welfare department’s short and long term plans and goals
Develops and updates colleagues resourcing and plans for the team
Plans and develops the Animal Health and Welfare department’s annual operating budget in coordination with the Zoological husbandry team
Develops and maintains safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for colleagues and animals
Assists in the field for rescues, health assessments and possible research with various species
Participates in developing long-range goals and objectives, including capital planning
Ensures any noncompliance and/or safety related incidents are investigated and corrective action taken as needed in conjunction with HSE and/or HR
Identifies and monitors key results and financial performance for assigned areas
Participates in formulating and administering department’s policies as needed
Perform other duties as assigned by the leadership team
Essential:
Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree
Master’s Degree or postgraduate qualification in Veterinary Medicine
Must be able to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in the UAE
10 years of employment experience in a Zoo, Aquarium, or Oceanarium Organization. This may include Post-doctoral training or a minimum of 2 years of full-time practical experience
10 years of experience in a leadership role
10 years of experience in the development and oversight of zoological budgets
Strong leadership, communication and teamwork skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Demonstrated knowledge with professional zoo/aquarium and animal behavior and conservation communities
Advanced computer skills, including MS Office applications
Desirable:
Board eligibility, Member or Diplomat status of a recognized Veterinary statutory / professional body
Miral Experiences
