President and Chief Executive Officer

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZoo), a renowned institution ranked among the top zoos in the country and a leader in wildlife conservation efforts, seeks an innovative and dynamic leader to serve as its next President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Located in the breathtaking foothills of Colorado Springs, CMZoo is the highest elevation zoo in North America and a top-ranked destination, welcoming over 800,000 guests annually. With a legacy rooted in conservation, education, and immersive guest experiences leading up to their 100^th anniversary, CMZoo is poised for its next chapter of growth and regional and global impact.

The CEO will lead a mission-driven organization renowned for its excellence in animal care, conservation leadership, and community engagement. CMZoo is home to over 1,200 animals across 150+ species, including award-winning exhibits such as Encounter Africa, Rocky Mountain Wild, and the African Rift Valley. It is also internationally recognized for its giraffe care and breeding program, including the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe, which is currently undergoing major expansion with the opening coinciding with CMZoo’s centennial year. 

This is a rare opportunity to helm a financially sound, privately operated nonprofit that receives no local tax support and is governed by a highly engaged Board of Directors. The next CEO will guide a passionate team of over 300 staff and 200 volunteers, steward a budget of over $20 million, and champion a strategic vision that integrates conservation, education, and innovation.

Ideal candidates will bring a bold vision, proven executive leadership, and a deep commitment to wildlife conservation. They will be compelling communicators, strategic fundraisers, and collaborative leaders capable of inspiring internal teams and external stakeholders alike. The CEO will be instrumental in building on CMZoo’s successes, shaping its future, expanding its reach, and ensuring its continued role as a cultural cornerstone and conservation leader.

A six-member Board search committee has been established to conduct this search. Inquiries, nominations, and applications should be directed in confidence below.

Natalie Leonhard is leading this search with Alexandra Lolavar and Kendra Moleé. 

The Zoo is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any term, condition, or privilege of employment. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age 40 and over, race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by state or local law. This policy applies to all employees, including managers, supervisors and co-workers.

The Zoo will make reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with known disabilities and employees whose work requirements interfere with a religious belief unless doing so would result in an undue hardship or direct threat to the organization. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training. Employees needing such accommodation are instructed to contact their supervisor or the Human Resources office immediately.