‘The time for this move is right’: Cincinnati Zoo director shifting to new role

CINCINNATI — It’s doubtful you’ve spent as much time at the zoo as Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Director Thane Maynard, who started his career at the zoo back in 1977 and became the executive director in 2007.

But now, the zoo announced in a press release that Maynard is shifting to a new role: Executive Chair of the Board, where he will “spearhead the largest fundraising effort in the Zoo’s history.”

Replacing him as director will be Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike, a Cincinnati native. The change will be effective Jan. 1 next year.

Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike, a Cincinnati native, will be replacing Maynard as director. (Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden)

“I’m not leaving. This Zoo is in my blood, and its mission – to inspire everyone with wildlife – is my mission,” Maynard said in the release. “I just won’t be as involved in the day-to-day running of the park. Dave has been in charge of operations for a long time and is more than ready to step into the Director role.”

Maynard will still most likely be attending events in the area as a zoo ambassador and will continue with his radio show called “The 90-Second Naturalist.” The nationally-syndicated show launched back in 1987.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Thane for his extraordinary leadership over the past 19 years,” Cincinnati Zoo’s Board Chair George Molinsky said in the release. “His vision, passion, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and to the Cincinnati community have strengthened the Zoo’s reputation as one of the very best in the nation. We are thankful for his dedication and stewardship, and we are excited to see his legacy carried forward as Dave Jenike steps into this new role.”

(Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden)

Jenike’s time at the zoo began as an intern, and the release states that he “wore many hats” on his way to Chief Operating Officer, a role he took on in 2007.

“Thane and I have worked side by side for decades,” Jenike said in the release. “We trust each other and are aligned on what’s important – for the Zoo and for the planet. With his help, I’m confident that we can meet our goal to ensure a bright future for the Zoo and the impact we create.”