Job description

Director, Veterinary Service 
(20199)

Atlantis Dubai is part of Kerzner International, and home to two extraordinary resorts: the world-renowned Atlantis, The Palm and the ultra-luxury Atlantis The Royal. Together, they represent world-class service, bold innovation, and unforgettable experiences brought to life.

With over 6,000 colleagues from 129 nationalities, Atlantis Dubai operates as one team, with many departments and back-of-house functions seamlessly supporting both resorts. Across every role and department, our shared purpose is the same: to create amazing experiences and everlasting memories - not only for our guests, but for our colleagues too.

About the Job

As Director of Veterinary Services, you will lead the veterinary and laboratory function within a world-class marine animal operation. Reporting to the Executive Director of Marine Animal Operations, you will be responsible for the overall health, welfare, and medical management of a diverse collection of marine mammals and aquatic species.

This role combines hands-on clinical expertise with strategic leadership. You will oversee preventative healthcare, diagnostics, treatment, quarantine protocols, and regulatory compliance, while driving continuous improvement in animal welfare standards. You will work cross-functionally with animal care, life support, and operations teams to ensure best-in-class outcomes aligned with global zoological and aquarium practices.

The role also includes responsibility for veterinary program development, applied clinical research, scientific publication, and acting as a professional spokesperson when required.

Key Requirements

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from an accredited institution
• Valid veterinary license and eligibility for registration in the UAE
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in zoological or aquarium environments, with strong exposure to marine mammal medicine
• Minimum 5 years in a leadership role managing veterinary or animal health teams
• Advanced clinical capability across diagnostics, surgery, imaging (ultrasound, radiography, endoscopy), and postmortem analysis
• Deep expertise in aquatic animal health, husbandry, population management, and welfare for diverse species
• Strong understanding of water quality analysis and life support systems
• Proven experience establishing quarantine, biosecurity, and disease prevention protocols
• Demonstrated involvement in clinical or conservation research, including publications or conference presentations
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management and operational planning
• Experience working within regulatory frameworks and maintaining compliance with international standards

What We Need From You

• A strategic leader who can develop and implement a comprehensive veterinary medical program
• Ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing veterinary and laboratory teams
• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to influence across multiple departments
• A data-driven and analytical mindset, with the ability to translate scientific findings into operational improvements
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex medical information clearly
• A proactive approach to innovation, research, and continuous improvement in animal care and welfare
• High levels of professionalism, integrity, and accountability
• Flexibility to work irregular hours and travel when required

We offer a competitive, tax-free salary paid in UAE Dirhams (AED), alongside a wealth of benefits. These include generous food and beverage privileges, exclusive discounted rates at all Kerzner properties worldwide, comprehensive health insurance (with dental coverage), annual flights home, life insurance, an incentive programme, and a variety of colleague wellness and social initiatives.

With a strong emphasis on learning and development, colleagues at Atlantis enjoy access to world-class training, career mobility, and internal growth opportunities across the Kerzner portfolio - making this an ideal environment for ambitious individuals seeking a long-term, fulfilling career in luxury hospitality. Join the A-Team and discover the extraordinary.