Pat McTigue Appointed to Lead San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Pat McTigue has been officially named the Executive Director and Senior Vice President of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the organization announced last week. He had previously held the position on an interim basis for almost a year.

Leadership During Challenging Times

McTigue’s appointment follows a period of significant challenges for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, including navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a Vice President and Deputy Director, he played a key role in managing park closures and subsequent reopenings.

Oversight of Landmark Project

More recently, McTigue oversaw the opening of Denny Sanford Elephant Valley last month. This 13-acre habitat, the largest project in the park’s history, now houses the Safari Park’s eight elephants. The new area also features the Mkutano House, a two-story restaurant inspired by Kenyan art and culture.

Background and Experience

McTigue was initially selected as interim director following the departure of the previous president and CEO to the Houston Zoo in April of last year. Prior to joining the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, he spent two decades in the hospitality and tourism industry, holding positions in sales and marketing at various local hotels.

Applying Hospitality Skills to Conservation

McTigue believes his hospitality background is valuable in his current role. He emphasizes the importance of providing excellent experiences for both park guests and his team of employees. “I will often talk to the team, and I say that we are a conservation organization and we’re a visitor destination,” McTigue said. “We’re a place where people come for enjoyment, for family time, to make memories, things of that nature.”

Conservation Through Engagement

The Safari Park utilizes storytelling and immersive experiences to convey its conservation message. McTigue explained that the goal is to “grab at their heartstrings” and inspire visitors to contribute to a better world.

Alliance President Praises McTigue’s Leadership

Shawn Dixon, President and CEO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, stated that McTigue’s strong community ties, leadership skills, and dedication to the organization’s mission made him “the ideal choice” to lead the Safari Park. Dixon also highlighted McTigue’s ability to foster collaboration and navigate change as crucial to the organization’s recent successes.