Saint Louis Zoo Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Saint Louis Zoo has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and board leadership.

Dedicated to species preservation, Saint Louis Zoo fosters vital connections between people and wildlife through extensive conservation efforts and educational programming, impacting global biodiversity.

Leadership Roles at Saint Louis Zoo

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Dwight Scott
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Kathleen Tisone
  • Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer - Stephen Barth
  • President of Saint Louis Zoo - Jeffrey Bonner
  • Young Professionals Advisory Board, President - Lauren Schulte
  • Dwight Scott - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Dwight Scott, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Saint Louis Zoo, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the institution. Scott guides the zoo's mission to save species and foster connections between people and wildlife, overseeing the management of over 12,000 animals, many of which are endangered. This leadership role involves championing extensive conservation efforts and research initiatives, both locally and globally, to protect animals and their natural habitats. Dwight Scott ensures the zoo's educational programs, tours, and events effectively engage families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts, aligning all activities with the core objectives of conservation and public education. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to financial oversight and strategic partnerships that support the zoo's long-term sustainability and impact.

    Kathleen Tisone - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Kathleen Tisone, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Saint Louis Zoo, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Tisone oversees budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring the economic health of the institution to support its conservation and educational missions. This role involves safeguarding the zoo's assets and optimizing financial resources to maximize impact on species preservation and public engagement. Kathleen Tisone works closely with other executive leaders to align financial decisions with strategic goals, including the management of funds for extensive conservation projects and habitat protection. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer also directs financial controls and compliance, ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements and best practices in non-profit financial management. Tisone's leadership ensures the financial stability necessary for the zoo's continued growth and its commitment to wildlife conservation.

    Stephen Barth - Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer

    Stephen Barth, the Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer at Saint Louis Zoo, directs critical operational functions and financial stewardship. Barth oversees the logistical and financial aspects of the zoo's bus operations, ensuring efficient and safe transportation services for visitors and staff. This dual role requires a strategic approach to managing both the day-to-day operational demands and the long-term financial health of these services. Stephen Barth's responsibilities include optimizing resource allocation for operational efficiency and implementing financial controls to support business objectives. The Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other departments to integrate operational plans with the zoo's broader conservation and educational goals. Barth's financial acumen is applied to managing budgets, analyzing costs, and identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement within the operational scope, thereby contributing to the overall sustainability of the Saint Louis Zoo.

    Jeffrey Bonner - President of Saint Louis Zoo

    Jeffrey Bonner, the President of Saint Louis Zoo, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's conservation and educational initiatives. Bonner guides the zoo's commitment to saving species and fostering connections between people and wildlife, overseeing the care of diverse animal populations and the development of impactful visitor experiences. This leadership position involves championing research and conservation programs aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats globally. Jeffrey Bonner ensures the zoo's educational outreach effectively engages families, school groups, and the wider community in conservation efforts. The President of Saint Louis Zoo collaborates with stakeholders to advance the institution's mission, driving innovation in animal welfare, visitor engagement, and scientific research. Bonner's vision shapes the zoo's role as a vital center for conservation and learning.
    Jeffrey Bonner

    Lauren Schulte - Young Professionals Advisory Board, President

    Lauren Schulte, the Young Professionals Advisory Board, President at Saint Louis Zoo, leads a crucial group focused on engaging emerging leaders and supporters. Schulte directs the board's initiatives to foster a new generation of conservation advocates and donors, aligning their efforts with the zoo's mission of saving species and connecting people with wildlife. This role involves mobilizing young professionals to contribute through volunteerism, fundraising, and advocacy. Lauren Schulte facilitates strategic discussions and provides valuable insights from a younger demographic to the zoo's leadership, enhancing outreach and engagement strategies. The President of the Young Professionals Advisory Board champions innovative approaches to conservation awareness and support among their peers. Schulte's leadership ensures the board actively contributes to the zoo's long-term sustainability and its educational outreach to diverse audiences.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Saint Louis Zoo Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Saint Louis Zoo?
    Saint Louis Zoo is led by Dwight Scott (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kathleen Tisone (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and Stephen Barth (Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Saint Louis Zoo’s executive team?
    The executive team of Saint Louis Zoo includes leaders such as Dwight Scott (President & Chief Executive Officer), Kathleen Tisone (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Stephen Barth (Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Saint Louis Zoo have?
    Saint Louis Zoo has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Saint Louis Zoo’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Saint Louis Zoo includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer, President of Saint Louis Zoo, Young Professionals Advisory Board, President.