The Houston Zoo has announced Lisa Peterson, who currently helms the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, as its next president and CEO.
Peterson begins her new role on 2 June. She brings more than 27 years’ executive experience, mostly in hospitality, to the zoo in Texas.
Since 2017, Peterson has led the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as senior vice president and executive director – the first woman in the role in the park’s 52-year history.
The safari park is the San Diego Zoo’s sister site, located 35 miles northeast in Escondido.
There, she has driven conservation efforts including the Walkabout Australia habitat and overseen the development of the park’s largest-ever project, Elephant Valley, for elephant conservation.
Also, Peterson serves as a board member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
She has previously worked at Apple and as regional vice president at White Lodging, a hotel management company.
Zoo to expand conservation efforts
“I’m excited to join the Houston Zoo and work with this team to connect communities with animals while inspiring action to save wildlife,” said Peterson.
“I look forward to building on its strong foundation.”
Joe Cleary, Houston Zoo board chair, said: “Lisa’s blend of executive experience, passion for wildlife and leadership in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums made her the clear choice.
“We’re eager for her to start in June.”
Peterson succeeds Lee Ehmke, who will retire after more than nine years as president and CEO of the Houston Zoo.
During his time at the zoo, Ehmke oversaw a $156 million centennial capital campaign and the opening of the Galápagos Islands exhibit in 2023.
The Houston Zoo welcomes over two million visitors annually and leads conservation initiatives like restoring the Houston toad population and protecting gorillas in Rwanda.
Under Peterson’s leadership, the zoo plans to expand its conservation efforts in Houston and across the world.
Images courtesy of the Houston Zoo
