San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Appoints New COO and HR Chief

Annie Fitzgerald steps into the role of Chief Operating Officer with a background in driving operational excellence across complex, high-performing organizations. Her previous tenure includes serving as Vice President of Operations for Grand America Hotels & Resorts and managing The Westgate Hotel in downtown San Diego. CEO Shawn Dixon noted that Fitzgerald’s ability to combine long-term strategic vision with practical, day-to-day management will be vital as the Alliance continues its work in wildlife care and conservation science.

Allyson Carr joins the leadership team to oversee the organization's human resources strategy. Her career includes senior roles at global firms such as General Mills, Teradata, and Thermo Fisher Scientific, as well as leading people operations across 20 countries for Cybereason. Dixon emphasized that Carr’s experience in fostering people-centered work environments aligns with the Alliance's goals. Together, Fitzgerald and Carr are expected to play a central role in guiding the nonprofit, which currently operates the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park and maintains conservation partnerships in 170 countries.