LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Following a national search, Daniel (Dan) Maloney will take over as the new director of the Louisville Zoo, Mayor Greg Fischer announced Friday. He is only the fifth director in the Zoo's 52-year history.
What You Need To Know
- Daniel (Dan) Maloney will take over as the new director of the Louisville Zoo
- He is only the fifth director in the Zoo's 52-year history
- He comes to Louisville from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (JZG) in Jacksonville, Florida
- He will assume his new role with the Louisville Zoo in early October, replacing retiring Zoo director John Walczak
“Dan has the experience and leadership skills to successfully move our world-class Zoo into the future,” said Fischer. “His passions for animal care and welfare, conservation and guest experience fuel a deep understanding of the multi-layered zoo world. He will be an asset to the Zoo and our community.”
Maloney has worked with Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos for decades. He comes to Louisville from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (JZG) in Jacksonville, Fla., where he has been the deputy zoo director for animal care, conservation and wellness since 2010. While at Jacksonville, "He helped raise funds for the JZG’s capital campaign, served as the Zoo’s point person with the AZA, planned and developed multi-million-dollar budgets and worked with staff to create unique guest experiences," according to a release from the mayor's office.
“I am thrilled to join the dedicated Louisville Zoo team, and to be part of Chief Vincent James’ exceptional Community Building portfolio,” said Maloney. “We will continue to further our community’s connections to nature and advancing conservation education throughout the Metro region. My top priorities are ensuring optimal animal care and welfare, delivering superior guest experiences and providing a safe, inclusive space for our patrons. Accredited zoos and aquariums are essential centers for learning about wildlife and for sparking curiosity about animals from around the world. My wife Laura and I are so excited to make Louisville our new home.”
Maloney has served as general manager for life sciences at Australia’s Melbourne Zoo, a curator for the Wildlife Conservation Society and as vice president and general curator for the New Orleans’ Audubon Zoo, where he led the crew who remained behind during Hurricane Katrina. He also served as the president of the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville from 2019 to 2020.
He will assume his new role with the Louisville Zoo in early October, replacing retiring Zoo director John Walczak. Walczak has been with the Zoo for 36 years, including 17 years as director. According to the release, the Zoo added award-winning exhibits, celebrated its 50th anniversary and more under Walczak's leadership.
“Dan is a dedicated professional and innovative leader with a passion and drive for the mission of an AZA-accredited Zoo,” Walczak said. “He will lead the Zoo, the staff and its volunteers confidently into a new era. He will be a strong advocate for our community as well. I leave the Zoo in good hands, and I look forward to watching and supporting the growth of this treasured cultural asset into the future.”
As Zoo director, Maloney will oversee the work of 120 full-time, 10 part-time and more than 100 seasonal employees.