Executive Director - Zoological Society of at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

Executive Director - Zoological Society of New Jersey at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

The Executive Director of the Zoological Society of New Jersey (ZSNJ) leads the public/private partnership which fuels private support for Essex County Turtle Back Zoo. This is a high-impact opportunity for an accomplished executive with proven development and fundraising expertise. You will manage a relationship-driven advancement and modern membership program in support of a treasured asset and conservation leader in Northern New Jersey.

Turtle Back Zoo is a well-recognized destination and has seen tremendous growth, in attendance and more, over the last decade. All of this is a result of major investments by the County to deliver a high-quality guest experience and build innovative animal habitats. Building on its existing momentum in philanthropy and membership, the Society is poised to scale an already successful platform into a sophisticated major-gift and membership operation.

The Executive Director will be the architect for this next chapter.

• A large, loyal audience of Zoo visitors and members who can be invited into deeper philanthropic engagement.
• Partnership with a Zoo that has experienced tremendous growth and continuing accreditation by AZA and American Humane Association.
• A compelling, tangible case for support—the highest standards of animal care, demonstrated through a new state-of-the-art hospital; high impact conservation programs; expansive education offerings; and innovative capital improvements that donors can see and experience.
• The opportunity to lead a comprehensive campaign in the next three to five years tied to the Zoo’s new master-plan and Essex County’s continued investment.
• A committed public partner in Essex County, whose investments in the Zoo provide a strong foundation and credibility with donors.
• The chance to elevate the Society’s fundraising and membership systems, culture, and team, building off a strong foundation of success and grow the existing endowment into a larger, perpetual funding arm for the ZSNJ.
• High visibility across the County and region, with regular interaction with civic, corporate, and community leaders.
• Being part of a network of AZA professionals and fellow partner organization leaders, all of whom will share information and resources to support your success.

• 10+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in the nonprofit or public sector, ideally in a cultural, environmental, educational, or community focused organization.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including personally soliciting major gifts and managing donor relationships.
• Experience growing membership, subscription, or recurring revenue programs strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to work effectively with public agencies and elected or appointed officials, or within a public–private partnership context.
• Experience working with or supporting a governing or advisory Board.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, financial oversight, and organizational operations.

Compensation – Comp for further discussion.

The Zoological Society of New Jersey has partnered with Canopy Strategic Partners to lead this search. To be considered for this role, please submit a letter of interest and resume in a single PDF format to Lauren David at

As part of its comprehensive efforts to identify the most talented candidates, Canopy is partnering with Beneficence on this search. Letters of interest and resumes in a single PDF format can also be directed to Mike O’Neill at

The Zoological Society of New Jersey, West Orange, NJ