Rachel e Metz

Vice President of Animal Well-being and Conservation @Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia, PA, US

Advance the Zoo’s mission through innovation, conservation, education, and collection management for a 43-acre facility hosting 1 million annual visitors. Develop and manage impactful conservation programs while increasing the annual operating budget for the conservation program fivefold last year. Liaise with board members and chair board level committees. Participate in field conservation initiatives with conservation partners. Supervise animal care and conservation teams including veterinarians, nutritionists, curators and animal keepers (70+ team members). Lead efforts to create excellent visitor experiences and inspire conservation action through development of animal-related programs, inspirational staff encounters, thoughtful exhibit design and collection planning – all in an effort to increase visitation and advance net promoter scores. Increased earned revenue by implementation of paid behind the scenes experiences and interactive giraffe feeding program. Actively participate in engagement with donors and supporters, and support the Zoo’s mission through friend-raising and political support efforts. Manage and/or participate in population management programs at the institutional, regional, national and international levels. Promote an inclusive and positive working environment that endorses employee safety, growth and goal attainment through open and honest communication, a productive and collaborative atmosphere, positive thinking, compassion and empathy. Lead Zoo sponsored initiatives. Work cross collaboratively with other Zoo departments including Conservation Education, Public Relations and Development. Coordinate and support staff participation in research programs. Pursue innovative and collaborative Zoo partnerships with Conservation Organizations, the Philadelphia community, regional, national and international AZA accredited facilities and other external stakeholders and organizations including government and non-profit organizations.

College of Charleston

BS, Marine Biology

George Mason University

MA, Zoo and Aquarium Leadership - Conservation Education