Hayley Murphy

Hayley Murphy is CEO and executive director of the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), a nonprofit organisation that operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. The zoo group is a leader in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and human education.

After graduating from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1992, Murphy started her career as a small animal and equine veterinarian for three years. She later served as director of veterinary services at Zoo New England and Zoo Atlanta, before moving into more management-focused roles.

She is also founder and director emeritus of the Great Ape Heart Project, which transitioned with Murphy to the DZS. Additionally, she is a veterinary advisor to the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP) and the Great Ape Taxonomic Advisory Group, and previously chaired the Veterinary Advisors for the AZA Scientific Advisory Group. She is currently the chair of the AZA Ethics Board and serves as a board member for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

In 2020, Murphy’s conservation work was recognised by the AZA when the Great Ape Heart Project received the first-ever AZA Research Award.

“Working with endangered species is fascinating and impactful for the future of the planet. I think what I have enjoyed the most in my career journey is being a part of something bigger than I ever imagined,” she said in a Cornell University alumni spotlight.

One person who nominated Murphy said she is "a perfect example of what it means to be an influencer in the zoo and aquarium community". They added: "Her visionary leadership ignites positive change for people, animals and nature, both in Metro Detroit and around the world."