Job Description

Social Media Executive
Chester Zoo
Full-time | On-site
30,000 per annum
Help us to tell our stories, grow our reach, and inspire a global movement for wildlife.
With more than two million followers across the world, Chester Zoo's social media channels are one of the most powerful ways we connect people with our mission to prevent extinction. Every week, our content reaches millions, showcasing unforgettable wildlife moments, world-leading conservation science, and the extraordinary work happening across our zoo and around the world.
We're now looking for a creative Social Media Executive to take on one of the most exciting social media roles in the UK. Working with some of the best content around, you'll help elevate our online presence even further. As part of our PR & Media Team, you'll look after the day-to-day running of all our social media channels, including The Reserve at Chester Zoo, the UK's newest conservation hotel, and be tasked with growing our online communities, driving engagement, support and action. If you're a storyteller with a deep understanding of how to take content and make it cut through and connect, then we want to hear from you.
About you
You're a creative social media professional who knows how to make content work for a variety of different channels and audiences. You have an eye for detail, can react fast to emerging trends and breaking news, and craft stories that resonate with huge global audiences.
You bring:

• Expert knowledge of major social platforms and proven experience of generating high engagement among large digital communities.

• Excellent visual storytelling skills and a track record in delivering content across multiple platforms in a fast-paced environment.

• A strong grasp of impactful organic social media use for business.

• A strategic, insight-driven mindset and good analytical skills.

• Ability to prioritise and plan workload effectively while building strong relationships across multiple departments.

• Ability to turn complex information into accessible, engaging stories.

• An understanding of how social media content drives revenue.

Required experience & skills

• Professional experience of managing and growing large online communities and delivering highly engaging content for a large brand or organisation.

• Strong video editing and content creation skills using industry-standard tools.

• Photography/videography skills (preferred).

• A relevant degree in media, communications or equivalent professional experience.

What you'll do:
Content strategy & planning

• Build a bold, insight-driven social media content calendar across channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube.

• Bring creative, innovative ideas - particularly for short-form content including Reels, TikTok and Shorts.

• Help manage an annual content plan around key events, campaigns, commercial priorities and global conservation work.

• Apply a strong understanding of monetising content across Meta, TikTok, and YouTube to support revenue generation.

• Utilise tools within the platforms to help promote events, fundraising and commercial initiatives.

Copywriting & brand voice

• Shape and refine a compelling, distinctive and consistent brand voice for Chester Zoo's social channels.

• Write clear, platform-specific copy and captions that translate into accessible, clear, emotive storytelling.

Community management

• Be the eyes, ears and voice of the zoo across all major platforms.

• Build a positive, inclusive community and respond to comments with personality.

• Stay ahead of emerging trends, formats, platform developments and audience behaviours.

Campaign integration & collaboration

• Partner with other teams across the zoo - such as marketing, science, conservation, education, commercial and fundraising - to deliver integrated content that helps achieve the zoo's various aims and objectives.

• Coordinate with the zoo's digital marketing team, and the agencies they work with, to ensure organic and paid social strategies work hand in hand.

• Support and amplify influencer collaborations.

Reporting & insights

• Analyse content performance and turn insights into clear, actionable recommendations.

• Report on reach, engagement, sentiment, conversions and storytelling impact.

Content creation

• Support the zoo's Content Creator, freelancers, and others in creative roles in delivering inspiring, high-quality content (video, stories, photography, graphics) optimised for each platform.

• Gather content that lifts the lid on the everyday magic of the zoo and our global conservation projects.

• Provide creative direction and hands-on content support around opportunities to gather social-first content for events and key zoo moments.

• Use tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, CapCut, Edits, Canva or equivalents to produce polished short-form content.

Working at Chester Zoo

• 40 hours per week, typically 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday to Friday.

• Occasional weekend or evening work (time in lieu provided).

• Hybrid working available, but the role is primarily on-site - right at the heart of the zoo.

• Be part of a mission-driven organisation making a real impact for wildlife worldwide.

Ready to inspire millions?
If you're a social media professional who knows the world of social media inside out, a brilliant storyteller and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now and help bring the world of Chester Zoo to life.
To apply, please send us a copy of your CV and a covering letter detailing why you'd be perfect for the role and tell us one thing you'd do to further elevate our channels.
The deadline for applications is 23:59, Sunday 8 March. Please be aware we may close sooner if we find the right candidate.

Skills Required