Chief Financial Officer

The Houston Zoo, one of the nation’s most visited and respected zoological institutions, seeks a visionary, collaborative, and mission-driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Ranked among the top zoos in the country and recognized globally for its leadership in wildlife conservation and education, the Houston Zoo welcomes more than two million visitors annually and strives to be a Zoo for all.

This is a rare opportunity to join a premier conservation organization in one of the country’s most culturally rich cities at a pivotal moment. As the largest conservation education organization in Texas, the Houston Zoo has been committed to the highest standard of animal care and wildlife conservation for decades. In 2023, the Zoo reached a historic milestone with the conclusion of its “Keeping Our World Wild” centennial campaign, exceeding the targeted goal of $150 million and fueling investments in state-of-the-art, award-winning animal exhibits, exceptional animal care, and impactful conservation and education programming. 

The Houston Zoo’s impact extends well beyond its campus. A recent economic study found that in 2023 alone, the Zoo generated $310 million and created more than 2,100 jobs in the Houston metro area through local business support, tourism initiatives, and capital projects. Additionally, the Zoo supports 33 wildlife conservation projects in 17 countries, contributing over $4 million to long-term efforts that protect species and habitats worldwide. With a strong balance sheet, a rare perfect reaccreditation inspection by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and a record five Top Honors awards for excellence in conservation, education, sustainability, exhibit design, and inclusion efforts, the Houston Zoo is setting a new standard for zoological institutions worldwide.

Reporting to President and CEO, Lisa Peterson, who joined the Zoo in June 2025, the CFO will be a key partner in advancing the Zoo’s mission through long-term financial planning, wealth creation, and operational excellence. As the Zoo wraps up its Strategic Plan 2023–25: Shaping Our Second Century and prepares for the next phase of growth, the CFO will play a central role in shaping the Zoo’s financial strategy, culture, and systems. 

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and relationship builder who brings both business acumen and a people-first leadership style. They will be energized by the opportunity to modernize systems, streamline processes, and foster a culture of service, transparency, and empowerment across the organization. With a strong sense of stewardship and a collaborative spirit, the CFO will help unlock innovation, strengthen financial decision-making across teams, and ensure the Zoo’s long-term sustainability -- while championing its mission to connect communities with animals and inspire action to save wildlife.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and application packets (resume and letter of interest) should be directed electronically in confidence below. 

Micah Pierce is leading this search with Phuong Ta and Marlyn Desire.

The Houston Zoo is a Zoo for All. Being a destination of choice for our community and visitors of all backgrounds while being a workplace of choice means having a culture that naturally integrates the tenets of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility.

Joining our Houston Zoo family means promoting a culture of mutual care and respect and striving to make the most meaningful and positive impact.

Our mission of connecting communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife is ingrained in who we are — it’s how we care, grow, and succeed together as one team to become a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.