Toledo Zoo & Aquarium Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has 4 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, operational management, strategic communication, and labor relations.

Dedicated to wildlife conservation and public education, Toledo Zoo & Aquarium fosters deep community engagement through immersive animal exhibits and diverse educational programming for visitors.

Leadership Roles at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

  • Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director - Jeff Sailer
  • Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President - Shayla Moriarty
  • President, Strategic Communication, Office of - Jeff Cole
  • Union President - Teri Waller
  • Jeff Sailer - Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director

    Jeff Sailer, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, directs the overarching mission of wildlife conservation and institutional growth. Overseeing the strategic vision for over 10,000 animals, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director ensures alignment with global accreditation standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This leadership role involves managing complex facility operations while expanding educational outreach across North American markets. By prioritizing sustainable practices and visitor engagement, Jeff Sailer directly impacts the long-term viability of the organization. The Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director collaborates with the Board to secure financial stability and enhance the reputation of the facility as a premier destination for families. Through rigorous oversight of animal welfare protocols and public programming, Sailer maintains the high standards expected of a world-class zoological institution.

    Shayla Moriarty - Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President

    Shayla Moriarty, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, manages daily facility logistics and internal administrative functions. Overseeing the execution of operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President ensures that visitor attractions and animal care services function with maximum efficiency. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-departmental teams to optimize the guest experience while maintaining strict safety compliance across the entire campus. By streamlining resource allocation and infrastructure maintenance, Shayla Moriarty directly supports the financial health of the organization. The Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President monitors performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in service delivery. Through proactive management of daily operations, Moriarty guarantees that the facility remains a top-tier destination for wildlife education and family entertainment within the regional hospitality sector.
    Shayla Moriarty

    Jeff Cole - President, Strategic Communication, Office of

    Jeff Cole, the President, Strategic Communication, Office of at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, architects the public messaging and brand identity for the organization. Overseeing external relations and marketing initiatives, the President, Strategic Communication, Office of ensures that the conservation mission reaches diverse audiences through effective digital and traditional media channels. This leadership role involves managing community partnerships and donor communications to bolster support for wildlife initiatives. By crafting compelling narratives about the 720 species housed at the facility, Jeff Cole directly influences public perception and membership growth. The President, Strategic Communication, Office of aligns messaging with the broader goals of the executive team to maximize institutional impact. Through strategic outreach and brand management, Cole strengthens the connection between the public and the vital conservation work performed at the zoo.

    Teri Waller - Union President

    Teri Waller, the Union President at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, represents the interests of the workforce while ensuring productive labor relations within the organization. Overseeing negotiations and workplace policy discussions, the Union President ensures that staff needs remain aligned with the operational requirements of the facility. This leadership role involves mediating between management and employees to maintain a stable and collaborative work environment. By advocating for fair labor practices and professional development, Teri Waller directly contributes to the retention of skilled personnel essential for animal care and guest services. The Union President monitors workplace conditions to ensure compliance with safety standards and organizational policies. Through consistent dialogue with leadership, Waller fosters a culture of mutual respect that supports the overall mission of the zoo and its commitment to excellence in wildlife education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Toledo Zoo & Aquarium Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Toledo Zoo & Aquarium?
    Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is led by Jeff Sailer (Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director), along with executives such as Shayla Moriarty (Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President) and Jeff Cole (President, Strategic Communication, Office of).
    Who is part of Toledo Zoo & Aquarium’s executive team?
    The executive team of Toledo Zoo & Aquarium includes leaders such as Jeff Sailer (Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director), Shayla Moriarty (Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President), Jeff Cole (President, Strategic Communication, Office of) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Toledo Zoo & Aquarium have?
    Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Toledo Zoo & Aquarium’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Toledo Zoo & Aquarium includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President, President, Strategic Communication, Office of, Union President.