Director of People & Culture

Zoo New England is seeking a dynamic, experienced and strategic Director of People and Culture as we enter a new phase in our growth and strategic vision planning. This is an exciting opportunity for a candidate with strong leadership and vision, and a passion for nonprofits and mission-driven work. As a key member of our leadership team, you will be responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies that support our business goals, foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. The successful candidate will bring a spirit of teamwork, innovation, resourcefulness and creativity, have excellent communication skills, work well in a diverse group, and provide positive leadership.

This position will oversee the HR staff at Zoo New England. We are looking for an experienced and collaborative leader who will partner with all levels of the organization to build a strong culture that aligns with our values and supports our business objectives.  

WHO WE ARE                                                                                                                  

Zoo New England manages and operates both Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo in Massachusetts and attracts over 1 million guests per year. We are in an exciting growth phase, with large-scale events such as the Boston Lights and award-winning conservation projects. We also recently launched an updated strategic plan and our interpretive master-plan initiatives. We are investing in multi-million-dollar capital improvements, recently opening an outdoor gorilla habitat; currently designing a Wildlife Health and Conservation Research Center, and opening a new African Experience complex, including addition of African penguins in 2026. The institution is focused and expanding, and this is a great opportunity to join our diverse staff and have an impact on the care, welfare and conservation of wildlife.

 
WHO YOU ARE   

• Proven leader in HR: Ability to plan, direct, develop and coordinate the policies, activities, and staff of the Human Resource (HR) Department at Zoo New England
• Empathic leader: Strong interpersonal skills to foster collaborations and build trust with internal and external stakeholders and motivate/coach diverse teams
• Adaptable and Organized: Resilient and agile to prioritize competing tasks, deadlines, making educated decisions under pressure. Dynamic and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Open and Positive: Able to evaluate and pivot from practices and decisions in the care and management of animals and staff when appropriate. Recognize and act on opportunities for improvement
• Excellent communicator: Timely and thorough oral and written communication is needed for positive and effective interaction with staff, guests and stakeholders
• Proactive critical thinker: Strong problem-solving skills to analyze issues and find solutions. Able to forecast needs, mitigate risks and plan in advance

 
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives
• Provide guidance and support to senior management on all people-related matters
• Oversee all HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, performance management, and training and development
• Facilitate Unemployment, MCAD, and Worker’s Compensation claims as needed
• Shape and promote a positive, inclusive, and engaging company culture that reflects our values
• Develop and implement initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention
• Champion diversity and inclusion efforts throughout the organization
• Lead and support the recruitment and hiring process, ensuring we attract and retain top talent
• Develop and implement employee development programs to support career growth and advancement
• Support annual performance review process and provide coaching and feedback to employees and managers
• Ensure compliance with all relevant state and federal employment laws and regulations
• Manage employee relations issues and provide guidance to managers
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that promote a safe and respectful work environment
• Other duties as assigned

 REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS

•  Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience within Human Resources or People and Culture is preferred
• Proven experience in developing and implementing HR strategies and initiatives
• Strong understanding of employment law and best practices in HR
• Ability to build strong relationships with employees and managers at all levels
• Ability to think critically and demonstrate time-management skills
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft suite, including Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams and BambooHR
• Experience working in a non-profit or zoo environment preferred
• HR certification preferred (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRMP-SCP)

 BENEFITS  

•  Medical, dental, and vision HMO and PPO plans for you and eligible dependents
• Paid Time Off including holidays, personal days, vacation, and sick time
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free zoo membership that includes zoo admission and discounts after 90 days   
• Discounts and perks at ZNE institutions and other cultural organizations in MA
• Free staff parking
• 401k Retirement Plan after 6 months

SELECTION PROCESS  
 

Apply on our web site at https://www.zoonewengland.org/jobs-volunteering/employment/ or by contacting hr-staff@zoonewengland.org.

ZNE values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The zoo encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, 2SLGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experiences. 

Salary : $110,000 - $130,000