Marine Mammal Science Job Openings

Research and Rescue Director, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

Job Category: Paid Staff Position
Date Posted:

We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Research and Rescue Director. In this role you will lead and develop the Research and Rescue Center at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

The R4 Director will collaborate with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment’s Chief Zoological Officer and the General Manager for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi to implement the vision of the Research and Rescue Center, manage the research lab, hire and manage internal and external research scientists, and serve as primary liaison to the General Manager of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
You will be responsible for the development and will nurture relationships with local and international researchers and research facilities to further the mission of the Research and Rescue Center at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

The job scope includes:

Maintain and develop high standards of research practice and facilities that meet or exceed all professional research accreditation standards
Lead, support, and coordinates all aspects of the Research and Rescue Center at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
With guidance from Research and Rescue Center Board of Directors (BOD), provides strategic direction and contributes to the planning, organization and implementation of the Research and Rescue Center’s short/long term plans and goals, including CAPEX
Creates and implements an annual financial plan that includes a comprehensive strategy on how to reach all development and fundraising goals including but not limited to events, grants and sponsorships.
Plans and develops the R4 Center’s annual operating budget in coordination with park finance and the General Manager
Review analysis of activities, costs, operations and forecast data to determine progress towards stated goals and objectives
Identifies and monitors key results and financial performance
Participates in formulating and administering policies as needed
Responsible for adherence to all legal, regulatory and company policies
Develop top caliber research teams and individuals
Develop and update as needed Staffing Procedures and Plan for all research disciplines
Developing mutually beneficial linkages with (industry) in order to build partnerships and collaborative research.
Maintains open and continuous lines of communication with the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi General Manager and General Curator
Fosters a culture of human and animal safety; drives compliance with existing safety policies while encouraging the review and renewal, or provision of new policies and practices to ensure all colleagues work in a safe manner with the appropriate protective equipment
Interacts with Government Affairs relative to legislation and laws pertaining to research
Collaborates with public relations team to promote a positive image of the R4 Center
Perform other duties as assigned by the leadership team

Qualifications

To be considered for this exciting role, you will need:

Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in the Marine Science or Zoological field to include animal sciences, education, other natural sciences or related disciplines
10 years of employment experience in a research organization with more than 5 years in a leadership capacity
Demonstrated high-level of business acumen and working knowledge of industry developments
Familiar with professional zoo/aquarium and animal research communities
Previous experience of collaborations with multiple governmental and non-governmental conservation and research organizations.
Ability to represent the Research and Rescue Center to community, media, government agencies, and trade associations
Proven experience in the development and responsible oversight of labor and budgets
Experience with grant writing.
Excellent leadership, interpersonal, communication and teamwork skills
Commitment to delivering high-quality guest experience programs
Willingness to serve on boards of professional research organizations and be familiar with accreditation practices and standards
Ability to be flexible and adapt quickly as the needs of the R4 Center develop
Demonstrated commitment to company values and safety