Gene Peacock Will Lead Red River Zoo
The Fargo institution selected a new president and CEO to begin in October 2026.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust that leadership changes at your local zoo will benefit the community?
The board of directors at the Red River Zoo has appointed Gene Peacock to serve as the organization's new president and CEO. Peacock, who brings two decades of leadership experience from other institutions, is scheduled to start his tenure at the end of October 2026.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a significant leadership transition for the Fargo-based zoo following a long-term tenure by the previous chief executive. The search process, supported by external consultants, aims to maintain the zoo's established standards of operational excellence.
The Red River Zoo hosts approximately 120,000 visitors annually, while the incoming CEO previously managed a $13 million budget at Zoo Boise. Gene Peacock brings 20 years of sector experience to the role.
The players
Gene Peacock
He is an experienced executive who previously served as the director of Zoo Boise and the Brandywine Zoo.
Sally Mulvena
She served as a leader at the Red River Zoo for 14 years prior to this transition.
Red River Zoo
This Fargo institution has maintained accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 2006.
Canopy Strategic Partners
This consulting firm provided professional assistance to the board during the national executive search.
The details
The board conducted a national search for a successor to Sally Mulvena, who led the organization for 14 years. Canopy Strategic Partners assisted the board throughout the recruitment process to find a candidate with experience in museum and zoo management.
Timeline
The Red River Zoo has been accredited by the AZA since 2006.
Gene Peacock will begin his term as president and CEO at the end of October 2026.
Market Landscape
The zoo sector increasingly relies on professional leadership searches to navigate rising operational complexity and maintain strict accreditation standards. This hire positions the Red River Zoo to sustain its competitive standing among regional attractions through the transition.
Visitors to the Red River Zoo should not anticipate immediate changes to daily operations or programming during this transition. Future strategic shifts under the new CEO may eventually impact ticket pricing or exhibit developments at the local attraction.
The takeaway
Selecting an experienced veteran with a background in multiple zoo systems suggests the board is prioritizing stability and proven management practices. Local stakeholders can expect a continuation of the zoo's core mission to maintain its accreditation status and visitor engagement levels.
What happens next
Gene Peacock will assume his duties as president and CEO at the end of October 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts in the People section.
Live Poll
Do you trust that leadership changes at your local zoo will benefit the community?
