Jill Nizan
Associate Vice President, Conservation
American Humane Society
Jill Nizan serves as associate vice president of conservation at American Humane Society, overseeing the organisation's global conservation initiatives. During her ten years at the organisation, Nizan has overseen several internationally recognised programs to advance animal welfare across sectors.
Nizan has led the growth of American Humane’s Humane Certified Zoos and Aquariums and Global Humane Certified Ecotourism programmes, which recognise institutions for their animal welfare standards. The certification network spans nearly 100 zoological and wildlife tourism operations across more than 20 countries.
She also oversees the Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation, established in 2022, and Escape from Extinction, an award-winning documentary series from Global Humane Society exploring the science and efforts behind protecting endangered species.
Representing American Humane Society at international speaking engagements, she also serves on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s Roundtable for Animal Welfare in Tourism, helping advance animal welfare standards. Her earlier work included media and public engagement initiatives, including coordinating production of the 2020 American Humane Hero Dog Awards.
"Her influence extends beyond zoos and aquariums, strengthening a global movement toward a more humane and conservation-minded future," said one person who nominated Nizan.
