Description

INTRODUCTION
The Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Waikiki Aquarium and reports directly to the Dean of SOEST. The Director provides strategic, financial, operational, and personnel leadership for all Aquarium programs and infrastructure, exercising significant authority and independent judgment in advancing institutional goals.
The Director oversees approximately 29 full-time staff across multiple operational divisions, more than 200 volunteers, and a complex organization that includes live exhibits, education programs, retail operations, membership services, facilities management, marketing, and special events.
The Director ensures financial sustainability while pursuing innovation, growth, and long-range capital planning.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and implement long- and short-range strategic plans aligned with SOEST and University priorities.
Lead planning for facility renewal, capital improvements, and future expansion initiatives.
Maintain the Aquarium as a regional and global leader in Pacific marine science and conservation.
Ensure the highest standards of animal welfare, husbandry, quarantine, and life support systems.
Advance innovative exhibit design that integrates research, technology, and immersive learning.
Maintain full compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations governing marine organisms and water quality.
Guide the Aquarium in achieving and sustaining accreditation.
Oversee robust educational programming serving tens of thousands of learners annually by expanding partnerships with Hawai‘i’s public and private schools.
Oversee budget development, expenditure control, and financial reporting.
Lead fundraising and membership development efforts in partnership with the Friends of the Waikiki Aquarium.
Strengthen earned revenue streams including retail and visitor services.
Work with Hawai’i State Legislature to develop bills for funding and support of personnel and development.
Engage government agencies and policymakers on matters affecting marine conservation and public institutions.
Serve as chief spokesperson for the Aquarium and the University on issues related to marine life, conservation, and animal welfare.
Integrate Indigenous knowledge and place-based learning into programming consistent with UHM’s strategic direction including development as a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning.
Represent Hawai’i in national and international aquarium and zoological networks.
Adhere to applicable laws, regulations, and policies and procedures of the University, raise awareness among staff, and direct them in such a way that University compliance requirements are met.
Identify and mitigate through policy development, revision, enhancement, and training, areas of risk and developing risk to the University, e.g., legal, financial, reputation, and compliance risk, and ensure team is aware and focused on addressing same.
Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree in marine science, biology, environmental science, public or business administration, nonprofit management, or related field.
Five (5) years of senior leadership experience in an aquarium, zoo, museum, research unit, or comparable mission-driven organization.
Experience in financial oversight, fundraising, and revenue diversification.
Deep commitment to animal welfare and regulatory compliance.
Experience working within complex institutional environments, ideally higher education.
Ability to comprehend and interpret administrative directives and guidance to ensure IT operations align with organizational standards and industry best practices.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. in Zoology, Marine Science, or related field.
Senior leadership experience within an accredited aquarium.