Jamie Christon

As CEO of Chester Zoo, one of Europe’s leading zoological institutions, Jamie Christon is responsible for the organisation’s overall leadership, including its strategic direction and senior management.

Christon joined Chester Zoo as chief operating officer in 2013 and became CEO in March 2021. His priorities have included leading the zoo’s financial recovery after the Covid-19 pandemic and re-establishing its strategic development plan in 2022. He has also overseen the zoo’s conservation masterplan ahead of its centenary in 2031.

Christon chairs the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and Marketing Cheshire, and has served on the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Council.

After graduating with a degree in politics, Christon began his career in retail management before joining Manchester Airports Group, where he led commercial operations. He subsequently became managing director of Exeter Airport before taking responsibility for Stena Line’s onboard operations in Europe.

A person who nominated Christon said: "His impact extends far beyond the UK’s most visited zoo, helping to influence national and international conversations about conservation, education, sustainability and the role modern zoos can play in addressing global environmental challenges."