Myfanwy Griffith

Myfanwy Griffith has been the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) executive director since 2014. She has spent the last decade leading, progressing and catalysing the positive impacts of the largest regional association for the zoo and aquarium sector.

Griffith is a member of the Conservation Planning Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survival Commission, and IUCN Commission on Education and Communication. She also serves on the WAZA Council and the Board of Trustees for Species 360. 

Griffith began her career in zoos, first as a zookeeper intern and then in the education department at Chester Zoo. During this time, she discovered her passion for wildlife education and moved from zoos to animal management colleges. 

She joined EAZA in 2011 in the new position of EAZA Academy training officer, where she helped expand the number and range of training events and courses EAZA offers. After three years, she became manager at the EAZA Academy. She was then appointed executive director and has transformed EAZA by expanding roles and services to the membership and developing a new strategic roadmap.

One person who nominated Griffiths said: "For over a decade, Myfanwy Griffith has been a transformative force in the global zoo and aquarium community. As Executive Director of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), she has led the organisation through a period of unprecedented growth, complexity, and influence.

"Her leadership has not only elevated EAZA’s strategic vision but has also strengthened its role as a global standard-bearer for conservation, education, and animal welfare."

Another said: “Myfanwy is widely recognised for her calm, culturally sensitive leadership style and her ability to navigate complex challenges with clarity and compassion. Whether guiding members through crises or advocating for the role of zoos in global conservation, she brings authenticity, vision, and a collaborative spirit that inspires trust and action."