Monterey Bay Aquarium names new CEO

MONTEREY – The Monterey Bay Aquarium announced that Jenny Gray will take the helm as chief executive officer in May.

Gray is known within the zoo and aquarium industry for her work in animal ethics, welfare and conservation, according to a press release from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Gray has served as the CEO of Zoos Victoria, in Australia since 2007 and was the president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums for two years.

Gray holds master’s degrees in ethics, engineering and business administration and has a Ph.D. in ethics from the University of Melbourne.

“The opportunity to lead Monterey Bay Aquarium provides a platform for me to contribute to ocean conservation, steward another iconic institution, and take on a new professional challenge,” Gray said in the press release.  “Zoos Victoria will always hold a special place in my heart, and I leave with pride in our shared achievements and optimism for the future.”

Julie Packard has served as the Aquarium’s executive director since it first opened in 1984 and announced her plan to step down from the position in January of last year. She will remain involved with the Aquarium, serving on the board.

“I can’t imagine a better person to come lead the Aquarium’s next chapter,” said Packard. “We have a fantastic staff and volunteer team, a unique and powerful experience for our guests, and a critical mission to inspire conservation of the ocean.”

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is consistently ranked among the top aquariums in the world and has brought in over 752 million visitors since opening, including over 2.7 million students admitted free with class visits and educational programs.

“We’re delighted to welcome Jenny; she is an experienced leader who brings strategic vision, scientific acumen, and a deep commitment to collaboration to her work,” said Aquarium Board Chair Tegan Acton in a press release. “We’re confident that she will continue the pioneering work in ocean conservation, marine life exhibits, and environmental education the Aquarium is known for.”

Zoos Victoria – a nonprofit Victorian state government statutory authority that manages Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Kyabram Fauna Park in Victoria, Australia – became a “a global conservation leader dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction through research and habitat protection,” during Gray’s leadership according to the press release.

Gray launched a variety of community mobilization campaigns and her efforts have been recognized by the Australia’s Public Service Medal, the Order of Australia Medal and the San Diego Zoo Global Conservation Medal.

She also has played a part in global species recovery efforts with the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Reverse the Red. Her own published work on ethics and animal welfare has “shaped thinking across the profession” according to the press release.

“Under Jenny’s leadership, the Aquarium’s future is brighter than ever,” said Packard in the release. “I trust she will carry on the spirit of innovation that has supported our vision of a future where the ocean flourishes and people thrive in a just and equitable world.”