About Monterey Bay Aquarium
With a mission to inspire conservation of the ocean, the Monterey Bay
Aquarium (the Aquarium) is the most admired aquarium in the United
States, a leader in science education, and a voice for ocean
conservation through comprehensive programs in marine science and public
policy. Everything we do works in concert to protect the future of our
blue planet.
Founded in 1984, the Aquarium is known for our focus on local and
global research and conservation efforts, excellence in exhibits and
educational programs, and animal husbandry techniques. Frolicking sea
otters, fast-swimming sharks, pulsating jellies and waddling penguins –
the Aquarium’s world-class exhibits and breathtaking scenery instill a
love of the ocean in their visitors. With nearly 2 million visitors a
year and over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, the Aquarium
is a window to the wonders of the ocean.
Scientists at the Aquarium are rebuilding sea otter populations,
transforming fisheries and aquaculture around the world, and working to
protect California’s ocean. Our policy experts are moving the needle on
legislation to address climate change and end plastic pollution. The
Aquarium’s Seafood Watch team is shifting the global marketplace to make
seafood more sustainable.
Education is a top priority at the Aquarium. Since 1984, more than 2.5
million students have visited for free. Our life-changing teacher and
youth development programs are helping young people find their voices as
ocean conservation leaders and will ensure a healthy future for the
ocean.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium has taken a strong, public stance and made a
significant investment in promoting diverse voices in ocean science and
conservation. For too long, Black people, Indigenous people, and people
of color, as well as LGBTQIA+ people, have been underrepresented in
marine science and conservation fields.
Learn more about Monterey Bay Aquarium at
https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/
The Opportunity
The Vice President of Facilities leads our institution's physical
infrastructure and sustainability initiatives with vision and
excellence. This executive role stewards our world-class campus to
create optimal environments for marine life, staff wellbeing, and
exceptional guest experiences. By overseeing critical systems, capital
projects, and sustainable operations, the VP of Facilities ensures our
physical spaces advance our conservation mission while modeling
environmental leadership in the aquarium industry.
The Vice President of Facilities will collaborate closely with the VP of
Exhibitions, VP of Guest Experience, and VP of Animal Care to ensure
seamless integration of infrastructure, sustainability, and visitor
experience initiatives. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future
of the Aquarium’s physical environment, ensuring it is resilient,
future-focused, and aligned with our mission to inspire ocean
conservation.
***This role is being recruited by a third party agency, Koya.
To be considered for this role,
you must apply via the Koya website.
Applications submitted to the Monterey Bay Aquarium website will not
be considered.***
Core Responsibilities
Infrastructure Excellence & Systems Management
Lead the comprehensive operation, maintenance, and strategic upgrading
of all facility systems including life support, electrical
infrastructure, HVAC, water quality, and building integrity. Ensure
seamless functioning of critical systems that support animal health,
staff wellbeing, and guest comfort through proactive management and
emergency response planning.
Capital Project & Campus Planning Leadership
Direct major renovation and repair projects (between $5 - $30M+) and
oversee campus planning initiatives that align with institutional
priorities. Lead the design development process, permitting,
construction, and commissioning of new infrastructure while ensuring
projects adhere to budget, timeline, and sustainability goals.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety Leadership
Maintain comprehensive regulatory compliance across all facility
operations, with particular focus on local, county, and state water
quality and water discharge compliance, ADA requirements, and OSHA
standards. Foster a culture of safety excellence through rigorous
training, proper equipment, and emergency preparedness across the
division's 55+ staff members.
Sustainability & Environmental Leadership
Support the sustainability plan of the Aquarium by being an active
member of the Sustainability Steering Committee. Support efforts toward
net-zero emissions and waste while prioritizing regenerative energy
sources through innovative approaches and industry collaboration.
Equity & Belonging Leadership
Champion a workplace culture of belonging, trust, and continuous growth.
Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility principles
throughout the Facilities Division, and institution-wide, creating an
environment that attracts and develops exceptional talent.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will have the following professional and personal
qualities, skills, and characteristics:
-
Ten years of progressive leadership experience in facility management
for complex operations (aquarium, zoo, museum, or similar
mission-driven institutions).
-
Outstanding team leadership capabilities with experience managing
diverse technical teams of 25+ staff.
-
Demonstrated success managing large-scale capital projects ($10M+)
from conception through completion.
-
Strong financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets of
$10M+.
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Proven track record implementing sustainability initiatives and reducing
environmental impacts in large facilities.
-
Experience ensuring regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions
and requirements.
-
Exceptional communication and collaboration skills with the ability to
work effectively across divisions.
-
Demonstrated commitment to and experience with advancing diversity,
equity, inclusion, and accessibility principles.
Preferred, but not required:
-
Knowledge of animal life support systems components and operations.
-
Experience with oceanfront facilities and associated permitting
requirements.
- Background in mechanical, civil, or environmental engineering.
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Familiarity with California-specific environmental regulations.
-
Experience transforming facilities to enhance accessibility beyond
minimum ADA compliance.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The salary range
for this role is $190,000 - $240,000 with a generous benefits package.
The exact salary that will be offered to the Vice President of
Facilities will be determined based on a consideration of the successful
candidate’s skills, experience, and geography and aligned with Monterey
Bay Aquarium’s compensation policies.
Contact
Koya Partners l Diversified Search Group has been exclusively retained
for this engagement, which is being led by Erin Reedy and Christy
Farrell. Submit a compelling cover letter and resume by
filling out our Talent Profile. All inquiries are strictly confidential.
Monterey Bay Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and strongly
encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities,
women, and LGBTQ+ applicants.
