HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION The Senior Director of In-Park Revenue & Experiences leads the strategic vision, development, and performance of the Safari Park's in-park revenue portfolio to increase mission contribution while delivering exceptional, conservation-centered visitor experiences. The position is directly accountable for revenue-generating experiences and for achieving key financial, operational, guest-experience, and wildlife care standards. Working collaboratively across SDZWA, the Senior Director establishes a disciplined approach to product development, portfolio optimization, and campus-wide initiatives that strengthens financial performance, visitor engagement, and conservation impact. This position reports to the Executive Director, San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
WHAT YOU WILL DO:
Leads the design, development, and continuous evolution of mission-aligned programs, products, and experiences that increase visitor engagement, drive topline revenue, improve operating income, and generate greater financial contribution to SDZWA's conservation mission. Provides strategic leadership and direct oversight of Safari Experiences, including premium tours and overnight experiences. Establishes departmental cohesive vision, develops leaders, builds accountable teams, and ensures safe, efficient, financially sustainable, and guest-centered operations. Collaborates across SDZWA with Marketing, Revenue Management, Finance, Merchandising, Business Development, and other partners to develop products and align business capabilities, resources, and priorities in support of Safari Park key performance indicators. Leads business planning, budgeting, forecasting, pricing, capacity management, and portfolio evaluation. Uses financial, operational, and visitor data to identify opportunities, optimize performance, allocate resources, and inform strategic decisions. Establishes standards that create a cohesive, accessible, and authentic visitor experience across in-park revenue channels. Ensures products and programs consistently reflect the Safari Park's identity, conservation mission, wildlife care standards, and commitment to world-class service. Develops productive relationships with vendors, industry partners, and internal stakeholders; monitors emerging trends and best practices; and identifies innovative opportunities that strengthen the Safari Park's competitive position, operational capabilities, and long-term financial sustainability. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR8-9 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in revenue-generating operations, hospitality, attractions, retail, food and beverage, premium experiences, or a related guest-serving industry. Experience must include responsibility for financial performance, strategic planning, product development, cross-functional collaboration, and leadership of complex teams or multiple operating functions. Senior leadership experience within a zoo, aquarium, cultural institution, theme park, resort, or other high-volume visitor destination is preferred. Experience within zoo, theme park, or other high-volume guest-serving environment is highly desirable.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration/Management, Hospitality, Marketing, Finance, or related field preferred. SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGEAbility to use word processing, financial spreadsheets, and desktop publishing systems. Must have basic mathematical aptitude to manage complex budgets. Demonstrated ability to work with teams and manage effectively within a diverse environment. Able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Able to craft a vision and purpose and drive it with the team.
