#USA #San Diego #San Diego Zoo #Wildlife Alliance #Shawn Dixon

Shawn Dixon Takes the Helm at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

In an exciting new chapter for wildlife conservation, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has officially announced the appointment of Shawn Dixon as its new President and CEO. After conducting an extensive global search led by Korn Ferry, Dixon was selected to lead the organization into its next strategic phase, having previously served as interim president for seven months and chief operating officer for nine years.

Dixon, a long-time advocate for wildlife preservation and a dedicated member of the San Diego community, has been instrumental in driving the Alliance's initiatives to create a sustainable environment where all forms of life can thrive. With a mission focused on global conservation efforts, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the guest experience at both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park, which collectively attract approximately 5.5 million visitors each year.

Steve Simpson, chair of the board of trustees, expressed gratitude towards Dixon’s exemplary leadership qualities. “His deep roots in the San Diego community and his unwavering commitment to our mission made him the obvious choice for this role,” Simpson stated. The board's decision came after a thorough assessment of several candidates, all of whom were evaluated for their potential to lead the organization successfully into the future.

Dixon's vision includes not only maintaining but also expanding the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's conservation programs and its commitment to community involvement. His past leadership projects have brought transformative changes to the zoo, including significant developments like Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks and the soon-to-open Denny Sanford Elephant Valley—a project which marks the organization's largest initiative to date.

In terms of community engagement, Dixon's impact spans beyond the zoo. He contributes to multiple local boards, such as the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Committee, emphasizing his commitment to integrating wildlife conservation with community goals. Additionally, as the former chair of the San Diego Tourism Authority, Dixon has actively promoted the significance of sustainable tourism in advancing the wider conservation agenda.

“I’m profoundly humbled to take on this leadership role,” Dixon remarked. “San Diego is not only where our headquarters are located; it's the community that has embraced our mission for wildlife protection. Together, we can create a brighter future for all Earth’s inhabitants.”

Armed with extensive experience spanning over two decades in hospitality and tourism management, including notable positions with Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Vail Resorts Inc., Dixon is well-prepared to deliver memorable experiences while advancing conservation goals. His educational background, including a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Sacramento, further adds to his qualifications, as does his recognition as a professional fellow of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

As Dixon embarks on this new journey as CEO, he carries a profound commitment to enhancing the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s legacy. His proactive approach aims to foster stronger partnerships with local, national, and global organizations, thereby extending the Alliance’s reach in wildlife conservation efforts. The coming years are expected to be pivotal as Dixon leads the organization in its mission to protect wildlife and invigorate community engagement around conservation initiatives.

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance stands at the forefront of wildlife conservation strategies, and with Shawn Dixon at the helm, its future feels more promising than ever.