Lead with Purpose. Drive Conservation. Inspire Community.
BC Wildlife Park is seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to serve as its next Executive Director. This is a rare opportunity to lead a trusted conservation organization and shape its future impact across British Columbia.
Rooted in community and driven by a mission of conservation through education, BC Wildlife Park connects people with wildlife in meaningful ways - fostering respect, awareness, and action to protect the natural world.
Why This Role Matters
As Executive Director, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the Park’s long-term vision, strengthening its financial sustainability, and expanding its conservation and community impact. You will work closely with a committed Board of Directors and a passionate team to ensure the organization continues to thrive as both a conservation leader and a valued community destination.
This is more than a leadership role. It’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference.
About BC Wildlife Park
Located in Kamloops, BC, BC Wildlife Park is a not-for-profit, CAZA-accredited wildlife facility dedicated to animal care, conservation, education, and public engagement. With an annual operating budget of approximately $3.5 million and a unionized workforce, the Park is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by a strong network of community partners.
What You’ll Do
You will provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the organization, with a focus on:
- Setting Vision & Strategy: Lead the development and execution of the Park’s strategic plan and future priorities
- Partnering with the Board: Support strong governance, decision-making, and organizational accountability
- Ensuring Financial Sustainability: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and revenue diversification
- Building Relationships & Visibility: Act as the Park’s primary ambassador with donors, government, Indigenous partners, and the community
- Leading Through People: Support and guide the General Manager and foster a strong, inclusive organizational culture
- Protecting Integrity & Standards: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and CAZA accreditation standards
Who You Are
You are a thoughtful and strategic leader with at least 5 years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, public-sector, or mission-driven organization. You bring a proven track record of:
- Working effectively with a Board of Directors and supporting strong governance practices
- Overseeing operations, including experience in a unionized environment
- Providing financial stewardship, fundraising leadership, and stakeholder engagement
- Driving organizational strategy while fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture
Experience in wildlife conservation, zoological institutions, environmental organizations, or regulated public attractions is a strong asset. Post-secondary education in nonprofit management, business administration, environmental science, or a related field is preferred, and an advanced degree is considered an asset. An equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience may also be considered.
What We Offer
- Salary range of $75,000 - $120,000, based on experience
- Comprehensive benefits package, including RRSP
- Ongoing professional development support
- The opportunity to lead a purpose-driven organization making a real difference
Join Us
If you’re ready to lead with purpose and help shape the future of BC Wildlife Park and its conservation programs, we’d love to hear from you. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will be accepted until the position is filled.
The BC Wildlife Park is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.
Pay: $75,000.00-$120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- RRSP match
Application question(s):
- If you are not located in Kamloops, do you have a planned relocation to the area? Please give context.
- Please note: This question is a required part of our screening process. Applicants who do not provide a complete response may not be considered further.
Please describe your experience working with a Board of Directors. Include your role in governance, Board reporting, strategic planning, policy development, and supporting effective Board decision-making.
- Please note: This question is a required part of our screening process. Applicants who do not provide a complete response may not be considered further.
Please describe your experience leading organizational operations. Include the size and scope of the organization(s), your leadership responsibilities, and any experience working within a unionized environment, including labour relations and collective agreement administration.
- Please note: This question is a required part of our screening process. Applicants who do not provide a complete response may not be considered further.
Please describe a leadership role or accomplishment you are most proud of. Include how you provided strategic direction, financial oversight, fundraising or stakeholder engagement, and how you fostered a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture. What was the outcome?
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- senior leadership: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
