Vice President of Facilities at Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California

Job Description:

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+.


• 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.


• 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.

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