Max Pulsinelli

Max Pulsinelli serves as chief communications officer of the Los Angeles Zoo. A nationally recognised leader in the zoo and aquarium industry, Pulsinelli is committed to conservation, and has become a trusted and influential voice in the community.

In his role at the Los Angeles Zoo, Pulsinelli is a key member of the executive leadership team, and a senior advisor to the zoo’s director and CEO. He leads all marketing and communications efforts, overseeing brand and reputation management for the zoo, and manages a talented team.

“Pulsinelli’s crisis management acumen has guided the zoo through complex, high-stakes challenges, including national campaigns by animal rights groups, legal issues, and organizational restructuring, earning widespread respect for his strategic thinking and ethical leadership,” said one person who nominated him.

Previously, Pulsinelli served as executive director of communications for WCS Zoos & Aquarium, managing communications for all five of its zoological facilities.

Additionally, “He played a pivotal role in ushering the profession into a new era of transparency through his part in the development and production of the award-winning television series The Zoo on Animal Planet. His leadership on this groundbreaking project helped bring genuine, authentic, behind-the-scenes storytelling to a national audience, enhancing public understanding of animal care and zoo operations,” his nominator added.

“Pulsinelli’s influence within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is long-standing and far-reaching. He is recognized not only for his professional achievements, but also for his dedication to ethical standards in animal welfare and his ability to mentor and inspire others in the profession.”