KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Zoo Knoxville announced Wednesday that its Board of Directors has appointed an interim president and CEO.
Drew Rowan's appointment was effective on Jan. 1. His appointment comes after the previous CEO, Lisa New, accepted a position as CEO of the Dallas Zoo, according to Zoo Knoxville.
Rowan is a native East Tennesseean who returned to the region after working for 16 years at the Denver Zoo. He began his career as a zookeeper and served in many operational, strategic and admin roles while in Colorado. He was hired as Zoo Knoxville's Chief Operations Officer in August 2022, Zoo Knoxville said.
“Drew’s experience serving in senior positions both at Denver Zoo and Zoo Knoxville will ensure continuity of leadership to facilitate a smooth transition between Lisa’s departure and the appointment of a new President and CEO as part of the zoo’s succession plan,” Chair of Zoo Knoxville's Board of Directors Russ Watkins said. “The board is confident in Drew’s ability to maintain the Zoo’s momentum and high standards.”
The zoo's board has put together a committee to lead a national search for the next president and CEO. As an interim president, Rowan will oversee daily operations and ongoing community engagement projects, according to Zoo Knoxville.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to keep Zoo Knoxville on course as we transition to our next era of leadership,” said Rowan. “We intend to stay focused on executing plans for improvements to our campus and making the wellbeing of our animals our top priority. It is a privilege to be entrusted with the care of one of Knoxville’s treasures.”