The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance announced Tuesday its president and CEO will step down after five years of serving the organization.
Paul Baribault took the helm of SDZWA in late 2019 and navigated the 109-year-old institution through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Baribault’s leadership, SDZWA developed a comprehensive wildlife conservation strategy, aligning its efforts across eight conservation hubs on six continents. His tenure also saw record attendance at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, with nearly six million visitors annually.
“We are extremely grateful for Paul’s leadership and contributions to the institution and SDZWA’s advancement in wildlife conservation and as a world-renowned experience for guests of all ages,” said Steven Simpson, chair of the SDZWA Board of Trustees.
One of Baribault’s most notable achievements was overseeing the return of giant pandas to San Diego in 2024 — the first such arrival in the United States in 21 years. Additionally, he spearheaded the Safari Park’s Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, set to open in early 2026.
“I joined SDZWA in 2019 with the intention of helping to transform this storied institution and positioning it to be a leader in wildlife experiences, conservation leadership and the pioneering of biodiversity efforts in the 21st century,” Baribault said.
“Having led a remarkable team to put the organization on a new and exciting path, and having had the opportunity to see it succeed in remarkable ways, the time feels right for me to pass the baton and pursue my next adventure,” he said. “I remain in awe of what we did together, and I look forward to supporting this transition to ensure the organization’s ongoing success.”
The Board will launch a nationwide search for a new president and CEO, with Chief Operating Officer Shawn Dixon serving as interim president and CEO.
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