Saint Louis Zoo Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Saint Louis Zoo has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and conservation.

Dedicated to saving species and fostering connections between people and wildlife, Saint Louis Zoo provides extensive educational programs and engages in vital conservation efforts to protect animals and their habitats globally.

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
  • 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, ensuring alignment with conservation goals and visitor engagement objectives. This leadership role involves overseeing all departments, from animal care and conservation science to education and guest experience, driving initiatives that support the zoo's commitment to protecting animals and their habitats. Scott's strategic vision ensures the Saint Louis Zoo remains a leader in zoological best practices and a vital resource for wildlife conservation education. Dwight Scott's influence extends to fostering partnerships and securing resources necessary for the zoo's continued growth and impact. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the institution's financial health and operational efficiency, enabling ambitious conservation projects and educational outreach programs. Scott's focus is on long-term sustainability and enhancing the zoo's role as a global conservation advocate.

    Kathleen Tisone - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Kathleen Tisone, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Saint Louis Zoo, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the organization. Tisone oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and investment management, ensuring the zoo's resources are allocated effectively to support its conservation and educational missions. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that enable the zoo to expand its conservation efforts, enhance visitor experiences, and maintain its extensive animal collection. Kathleen Tisone works closely with other executive leaders to ensure financial sustainability and drive operational efficiency across all zoo departments. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer is responsible for safeguarding the zoo's assets and optimizing revenue streams from admissions, concessions, and fundraising initiatives. Tisone's financial acumen is essential for the successful execution of long-term strategic plans and capital projects, reinforcing the Saint Louis Zoo's commitment to saving species and fostering wildlife connections.

    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 oversees financial management. Barth's dual role ensures seamless integration between the zoo's operational logistics, particularly bus services, and its overall financial strategy. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation for daily operations, managing budgets for infrastructure and services, and ensuring efficient delivery of visitor transportation. Stephen Barth's responsibilities extend to enhancing the visitor experience through effective management of bus operations, contributing to the zoo's mission of fostering connections between people and wildlife. The Vice President, Bus Operations and Chief Financial Officer also plays a key part in financial oversight, supporting the zoo's conservation initiatives and educational programs through sound fiscal practices. Barth's strategic approach to operations and finance supports the Saint Louis Zoo's commitment to saving species and maintaining its status as a premier conservation institution.

    Jeffrey Bonner - President of Saint Louis Zoo

    Jeffrey Bonner, the President of Saint Louis Zoo, leads the institution's strategic direction and conservation initiatives. Bonner is dedicated to advancing the zoo's mission of saving species and fostering connections between people and wildlife, overseeing extensive conservation efforts and educational programs. This leadership role involves guiding the management of over 12,000 animals, many endangered, and ensuring the zoo's research contributes to global conservation science. Jeffrey Bonner's vision drives the zoo's engagement with families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts, promoting a deeper understanding of animal conservation. The President of Saint Louis Zoo champions initiatives that protect animals and their habitats locally and globally, reinforcing the institution's impact. Bonner's leadership ensures the zoo remains at the forefront of conservation, education, and visitor engagement, fulfilling its commitment to wildlife preservation and public awareness.
    Jeffrey Bonner

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    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 4 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.