Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith has a diverse and extensive background in zoo management and animal care. Lisa currently serves as the President/CEO of The Buffalo Zoo since 2023. Prior to this, they held the position of Interim President and CEO from 2022 until 2023. Lisa also served as the Chief Zoological Officer at The Buffalo Zoo from 2021 to 2023 and as the General Curator from 2018 to 2021. Before joining The Buffalo Zoo, Lisa worked as the Senior Director of Animal Programs at the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum from 2009 to 2018. Lisa was the Curator of Large Mammals at Zoo Atlanta from 2002 to 2009. Lisa also gained experience as a Zookeeper at Cleveland Metroparks from 1998 to 2002 and at the Santa Barbara Zoo from 1997 to 1998. Lisa started their career as an Animal Care Specialist for marine mammals and aquarist at Undersea World (now Ocean World) from 1995 to 1997.

Lisa Smith attended Brunswick Highschool from 1985 to 1989. After completing their high school education, they pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and zoology at The University of Akron from 1989 to 1993.