Kelly Martin
Clearwater Beach,FL
Summary
Dynamic and accomplished zoological care executive with more than 20 years of national and international experience in marine animal care, welfare, and organizational leadership. Recognized for advancing animal welfare standards, driving strategic initiatives, and fostering innovation in guest engagement and conservation education. Adept at building high-performing teams, overseeing complex life-support systems, and managing large-scale projects aligned with institutional missions and global best practices.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President of Zoological Care
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater, FL
2021 - Current
- Serve as a key advisor to the executive team in shaping organizational mission, vision, and long-term strategic goals.
- Oversee all aspects of zoological operations, including marine mammals, aquatic biology, sea turtle programs, rescue, and dive operations.
- Direct operational and capital budgets encompassing capital improvements, major maintenance, animal acquisitions, and transportation.
- Lead staff development initiatives, hiring, training, and mentoring diverse teams to ensure excellence in animal care and guest engagement.
- Advance departmental productivity by streamlining processes, implementing best practices, and fostering cross-team collaboration.
- Represent CMA to governing agencies, partners, and industry networks, strengthening institutional reputation and expanding conservation impact.
Director of Animal Care
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater, FL
2015 - 2021
- Directed day-to-day and long-range planning for animal care specialists, aquatic biology, sea turtle, and conservation programs.
- Managed annual budgets and grant writing/reporting to secure resources for animal welfare and habitat improvements.
- Established measurable departmental goals, tracked performance, and implemented feedback mechanisms.
- Oversaw multi-location operations to maximize productivity and maintain best-in-class animal care standards.
Director of Marine Mammal Operations
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater, FL
2014 - 2015
- Acted as primary liaison with USDA, FWC, and NMFS for permits, compliance, and reporting.
- Directed marine mammal behavior management programs, including guest experiences and stranding events.
- Created revenue-generating opportunities aligned with animal welfare priorities.
Manager of Marine Mammals
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater, FL
2011 - 2014
- Supervised daily operations, including staff training, volunteer management, and marine mammal stranding response.
- Enhanced team agility through cross-training and mentorship.
- Delivered detailed performance feedback to optimize departmental outcomes.
Director of Marine Mammal Operations
Dolphin Cay, Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas
2008 - 2011
- Directed daily training, husbandry, and guest programming for three dolphin social groups.
- Coordinated breeding management and social group structure to optimize animal welfare and program balance.
- Acted as Manager on Duty, overseeing all operational and guest service responsibilities.
Marine Mammal Specialist
Dolphin Cay, Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas
2006 - 2008
- Monitored dolphin health, safety, and care while leading guest education programming.
- Developed and delivered shallow/deep-water dolphin interactions and VIP programs.
- Participated in advanced medical and husbandry procedures including sonograms and bloodwork.
Senior I - Dolphin Trainer
Discovery Cove
Orlando, FL
2001 - 2006
- Trained, conditioned, and maintained behaviors for bottlenose dolphins in interactive guest programs.
- Managed animal health care routines, including diet preparation, medical treatments, and environment upkeep.
- Educated thousands of guests annually on conservation and marine mammal care.
Dolphin Trainer, Intern
Mirage Hotel and Casino
Las Vegas, NV
2000 - 2001
- Supported training, husbandry, and enrichment for bottlenose dolphins.
- Conducted educational programming for local schools and guest audiences.
- Ensured compliance with USDA and facility protocols for habitat maintenance.
Education
Associate of Science - Biology
05-1997
Skills
Strategic Leadership
Staff Training & Mentorship
Performance Optimization & Innovation
Regulatory Compliance
Budgeting & Capital Planning
Grant Management
Creative Problem Solving & Process Improvement
Guest Experience
Timeline
Vice President of Zoological Care - Clearwater Marine Aquarium
2021 - Current
Director of Animal Care - Clearwater Marine Aquarium
2015 - 2021
Director of Marine Mammal Operations - Clearwater Marine Aquarium
2014 - 2015
Manager of Marine Mammals - Clearwater Marine Aquarium
2011 - 2014
Director of Marine Mammal Operations - Dolphin Cay, Atlantis
2008 - 2011
Marine Mammal Specialist - Dolphin Cay, Atlantis
2006 - 2008
Senior I - Dolphin Trainer - Discovery Cove
2001 - 2006
Dolphin Trainer, Intern - Mirage Hotel and Casino
2000 - 2001
North Idaho Junior College - Associate of Science, Biology