Job Description

About Us

ZSL (Zoological Society of London) is an international conservation charity working to create a world where wildlife thrives. From investigating the health threats facing animals to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, ZSL is committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction. Our work is realised through our ground-breaking science, our field conservation around the world and engaging millions of people through our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

ZSL is based on two main sites in the UK: Regent’s Park in London and Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, and operates from c.10 offices overseas. The Regent’s Park site consists of 36 acres of land on lease from The Crown and contains London Zoo, ZSL’s Science and Animal Health Facilities and other operational buildings including the Head office functions.  The portfolio of buildings and structures represent the history of the site from its opening in 1826 through to the modern day, with 13 listed structures and other points of historic interest. The structures on site include restaurants, cafes, shops, scientific laboratories, and education facilities, as well as the animal exhibits themselves and a large amount of ancillary and support buildings.

Whipsnade is an open 600-acre site retained by The Society on freehold, located on the edge of the Chilterns Greenbelt, and including a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The site itself is predominately dedicated to large paddocks and enclosures for the Zoological collection supported by predominately agricultural buildings and shelters, as well as restaurants, retail premises and a central warehouse. The site also includes a central hub which supports the Zoo’s major structures along with a road network and Narrow Gauge Railway, including steam train yard and station. In addition to the main site the Society is also responsible for several residential properties in the adjoining Whipsnade Village along with the management of the common areas within the village. The overseas offices act as a central hub for the Society’s conservation work across Africa and Asia.

Role Profile

ZSL is seeking an exceptional candidate to be our new Projects Manager. This post is required to enable projects (<£500K to £6m) to be procured and managed throughout their life cycle. This fits into the wider Projects Department strategy where projects greater than £500K will be overseen by the Senior Projects Manager with operational day to day responsibility sitting with the Project Manager. This post will report to the Senior Projects Manager but this structure would allow a clear delineation of work and responsibility. There is a strong element of liaison with the animal department where this role is key to the success of any animal related projects.

The successful candidate is required to have proven experience producing specifications, plans, costs and oversee construction and installation work. The post holder will also ensure compliance with the current CDM regulations are met and take ownership managing projects within agreed timeframes as directed by the Senior Project Manager.

Person Specification

• The post holder should have a relevant project management qualification (such as PRINCE2 or APM), or equivalent experience.
• The ability to demonstrate suitable knowledge in construction & maintenance practices and procedures through formal qualifications or experience is desirable.
• Experience managing budgets, schedules, deliverables, and risks against the critical path ensuring quality processes are followed.
• Knowledge of working in unique environments will assist the post holder to engage and understand how the Zoos function, with particular attention to working with the animal teams.
• Experience guiding, supporting, and advising clients on the benefits and implications of proposed solutions.
• Experience of managing multiple priorities, projects, and relationships
• Proficient computer skills using MS Project and Excel.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills are a prerequisite for the job.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills will are a prerequisite for the job.

Please note: This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent position reporting to the Senior Projects Manager. The post will be based at ZSL’s head office in Regents Park however, may occasionally require the post holder to occasionally travel to Whipsnade Zoo. Having a "can do attitude", solution-focused approach and the ability to make objective decisions under pressure will make you a success in this role.

To Apply

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) Sunday 21st October 2018.

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.