1.    What can Emma Breslin do to restore trust and morale among the employees?

2.    Should Breslin promote Wynona Singh to head (and attending) veterinarian or hire someone from outside?

3.    What changes to the organizational structure could Breslin make to help foster a more positive work environment?

4.    How might trust be restored among community members so that a positive outcome for the tax levy might occur?

City Zoo has had a good reputation for providing a high quality environment for its animals and a desirable venue for visitors. The zoo operates with a large staff and volunteers. Ove half of its revenues come from a special property tax levy which is renewed every three years. Despite its good reputation, there was a period of unpleasant publicity and the City Council created a special task force to review the zoo’s operations and finances.

In 2013 the Ministry of Natural Resources began an investigation of the zoo operations as a result of several animal deaths over the past few years. The zoo staff became nervous about the investigation. Some issues that came to fore was that the executive director was not necessarily seen as a good internal leader and the work environment was characterized by numerous disagreements.

The employees who work closely with animals are the veterinarians, curators, and zookeepers. There was some negativity amongst the groups and it was reported that people did not feel free to be open and there were no discussions around issues.