SAN DIEGO (March 27, 2026) – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has announced the appointment of Pat McTigue as senior vice president and executive director of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, effective immediately. McTigue has been with the organization since 2019 and has served as interim executive director since April 2025.
“Pat’s deep ties to the North County community, combined with his exceptional leadership and dedication to our mission, make him the ideal choice to lead the Safari Park into its next chapter,” said Shawn Dixon, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “His ability to inspire collaboration and navigate change has been instrumental in shaping key milestones for our Alliance.”
McTigue’s leadership has been pivotal during significant times for the Safari Park. As vice president and deputy director, he helped guide the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the safety of team members, guests, and wildlife during closures and reopenings. Most recently, he oversaw the successful grand opening of Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, the largest and most transformative project in the Park’s 50-year history.
“I am honored to take on this role and continue leading the incredible work being done at the Safari Park,” said McTigue. “The Safari Park is a vital part of our community and a cornerstone of our conservation efforts. I look forward to continuing to work with our team to build on its success.”
With a background in hospitality and tourism, McTigue brings extensive experience to his role. His leadership has strengthened connections between the Safari Park and the local community, furthering the Alliance’s mission to create a world where all life thrives.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance will begin the process of backfilling McTigue’s previous role as vice president and deputy director to ensure continued support for the Safari Park’s operations and team members.
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About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation leader, inspires passion for nature and collaboration for a healthier world. The Alliance supports innovative conservation science through global partnerships and groundbreaking efforts at the world-famous San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, both leading zoological institutions and accredited botanical gardens. Through wildlife care expertise, cutting-edge science and continued collaboration, more than 44 endangered species have been reintroduced to native habitats. The Alliance reaches over 1 billion people annually through its two conservation parks and media channels in 170 countries, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers television, available in children’s hospitals across 14 countries. Wildlife Allies—members, donors and guests—make success possible.
