Dr Mark Penning Retires as Vice President of Disney Animals Science and Environment

Dr. Mark Penning Retires from Disney Experiences, Named New Director of North Carolina Zoo

Dr. Mark Penning is trading the savannas of Disney’s Animal Kingdom for a new wild chapter in North Carolina. The longtime Disney conservation leader has retired from his role as Vice President of Animals, Science, and Environment for Disney Experiences and has been named the new director of the North Carolina Zoo.

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Penning will begin his new role this summer, according to the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. During his time with Disney, he oversaw animal care, conservation, and environmental initiatives across Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, The Seas with Nemo and Friends at EPCOT, and Disney parks around the world.

A veterinarian with a special focus on wildlife, Penning’s career has stretched well beyond Disney. Before joining the company, he served as CEO of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research in Durban, South Africa. He has also served as president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and as a board member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Penning also currently serves on the board of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and as a Trustee of Wild Welfare, continuing a career rooted in animal care, conservation, and global wildlife protection.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein welcomed the appointment, saying Penning’s leadership, experience, and vision will help take the North Carolina Zoo “to the next level.” The zoo is known as the world’s largest natural habitat zoo and is home to more than 1,700 animals and 52,000 plants.

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Penning said he has long admired the North Carolina Zoo for its picturesque setting, modern animal habitats, visitor experiences, and talented team. He called it “an honor and a privilege” to join the zoo’s team.

For Disney fans, Penning’s departure marks the end of a significant era in Disney’s animal care and conservation leadership. His work helped shape the behind-the-scenes science and stewardship that support some of Walt Disney World’s most beloved animal experiences, from the African savanna at Animal Kingdom to the marine habitats at EPCOT.

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