Maynard to step down as Cincinnati Zoo’s executive director, take new role

After nearly two decades at the helm of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Thane Maynard is shifting gears – but he’s not stepping away entirely.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the longtime (human) face of the Cincinnati Zoo will assume the role of executive chair of the zoo’s board, where he’ll lead the largest fundraising campaign in the zoo’s history. Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike will step into the director’s seat.

“I’m not leaving,” said Maynard, who began his career at the zoo more than 48 years ago. He has served as executive director the past 19 years.

“This Zoo is in my blood, and its mission – to inspire everyone with wildlife – is (also) my mission,” he continued. “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.”

The zoo’s mission is in his blood

Maynard began his zoo career in the Queen City back in 1977 as assistant curator of education. Since then, he has inspired countless people to explore the outdoors, support conservation and appreciate creatures great and small. As executive director, a role he assumed in 2007, he has helped shape transformative habitats such as Africa and the Elephant Trek, the recently completed largest project in zoo history.

He has also led the expansion of the zoo’s conservation programming, including the Nouabalé-Ndoki Project in the Republic of Congo, which protects gorillas in the wild.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Thane for his extraordinary leadership over the past 19 years,” said George Molinsky, chair of the zoo’s board.

“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,” Molinsky continued. “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.”

Handing over the reins to trusted hands

Jenike is no stranger to the Zoo or its mission. A Cincinnati native, he began his career there as an intern before moving through roles including director of education. He has served as COO since 2007. 

An avid birder and lifelong conservationist, he has worked closely with Maynard for decades. Together, they’ve worked to reimagine the visitor experience with new ways to surprise and delight guests, creating deeper connections to wildlife.

“We trust each other,” Jenike said of his relationship with Maynard, “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,” he added.

His leadership is already drawing praise. “We are confident that the Cincinnati Zoo will continue to be world-class with Dave at the helm,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, also known as the AZA.

“His passion for the planet and his genuine desire to create ‘A Wilder Tomorrow’ for people and wildlife will undoubtedly guide the Zoo to new heights,” he continued.

Won’t have to look far to find Thane

For Maynard, the move felt like a natural progression, coinciding with the celebration of the zoo’s 150th anniversary. The zoo also just completed the AZA’s rigorous accreditation renewal process, a certification it has held since 1978 – one year after Maynard’s arrival.

Though stepping back from daily operations, Maynard isn’t using the word retire. He also won’t be far from the public eye. He plans to continue to serve as a champion for the zoo at community events – sometimes with baby alligator Cruncher in tow – and hosting his nationally syndicated radio show, “The 90-Second Naturalist.”

And chances are, guests will still spot him strolling the Zoo’s grounds in Avondale with some regularity.

Maynard’s new formal role with the zoo, however, will focus on expanding the organization’s impact – locally, nationally and beyond. He’ll do that by rallying political and financial support for major projects like Elephant Trek that will shape the zoo’s future.

A top priority will be growing the zoo’s new Impact Fund, launched in September with a $60 million gift from the estate of the late Hugh Hoffman. The fund supports the zoo’s mission to provide world-class animal care, advance local and global conservation, inspire future generations through education, and offer an oasis of wonder and wellness in the heart of the city.

“I want to be able to focus on keeping the Zoo as a source of pride for our community with this next phase of fundraising,” Maynard said.

“The time for this move is right.”

Cincinnati Zoo