Dr. Jenny Gray named Monterey Bay Aquarium CEO

Monterey Bay Aquarium has appointed Jenny Gray to lead the organization as Nancy Burgermeister Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Gray is known in the zoo and aquarium industry for her work in animal ethics, welfare, and conservation. She has been Chief Executive Officer of Zoos Victoria, in Australia, since 2007 and served as president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums for two years. Transitioning from Julie Packard, the Aquarium’s first and only executive director since it opened in 1984, Gray will start in May. Packard will continue to serve on the Aquarium board.

“The opportunity to lead Monterey Bay Aquarium provides a platform for me to contribute to ocean conservation, steward another iconic institution, and take on a new professional challenge,” Gray said. “Zoos Victoria will always hold a special place in my heart, and I leave with pride in our shared achievements and optimism for the future.”

Monterey Bay Aquarium transformed public awareness of ocean issues and marine life. Consistently ranked among the top aquariums in the world, it has attracted more than 72 million visitors—including more than 2.7 million students admitted free of charge for class visits and education programs. By uniting storytelling, science, and action, the aquarium has built an enduring institution that doesn’t just reflect the ocean’s complexity and resilience but actively works to protect and restore it at a global scale.

“We’re delighted to welcome Jenny; she is an experienced leader who brings strategic vision, scientific acumen, and a deep commitment to collaboration to her work,” said Aquarium Board Chair Tegan Acton. “We’re confident that she will continue the pioneering work in ocean conservation, marine life exhibits, and environmental education the Aquarium is known for.”

“I can’t imagine a better person to come lead the Aquarium’s next chapter,” said Julie Packard. “We have a fantastic staff and volunteer team, a unique and powerful experience for our guests, and a critical mission to inspire conservation of the ocean. Under Jenny’s leadership, the Aquarium’s future is brighter than ever. I trust she will carry on the spirit of innovation that has supported our vision of a future where the ocean flourishes and people thrive in a just and equitable world.” 

Under Gray’s leadership, Zoos Victoria—a non-profit Victorian state government statutory authority that manages Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary, and Kyabram Fauna Park in Victoria, Australia—was transformed into a global conservation leader dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction through research and habitat protection. Gray launched community mobilization campaigns on issues ranging from reducing plastics to demanding sustainable palm oil. Her contributions have been recognized with some of the sector’s highest honors, including Australia’s Public Service Medal, the Order of Australia Medal, and the San Diego Zoo Global Conservation Medal. She has played a pivotal role in global species recovery efforts through initiatives such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Reverse the Red, and her published work on ethics and animal welfare has shaped thinking across the profession. Gray holds master’s degrees in ethics, engineering, and business administration, and a Ph.D. in ethics from the University of Melbourne.

About Monterey Bay Aquarium

With a mission to inspire conservation of the ocean, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the most admired aquarium in the United States, a leader in science education, and a voice for ocean conservation through comprehensive programs in marine science and public policy. Everything we do works in concert to protect the future of our blue planet. More information at MontereyBayAquarium.org.