Lori Hieber
Summary
Dynamic wildlife care leader with extensive experience at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, excelling in program management and team development. Proven track record in enhancing animal welfare through innovative husbandry practices and operant conditioning. Skilled in mentoring, public outreach, and fostering a collaborative environment for optimal team performance and guest engagement.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Wildlife Care Specialist
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
04.2018 - Current
- Manage organization and maintenance of large carnivore programs, including safety protocols, husbandry standard operating procedures, operant conditioning and enrichment program development.
- Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and mentoring of new hires to optimize performance and professional development.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive management strategies for our large carnivore programs, optimizing both animal welfare and guest experience.
- Oversaw the development of the Australia Team during its inception, including working with teams internationally to represent the organization, aid in acquiring necessary permitting for international shipments, and facilitate the successful acquisition of two platypuses from Australia.
Senior Wildlife Care Specialist
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
09.2008 - 04.2018
- Managed organization and maintenance of the tiger program, including general husbandry, operant conditioning and enrichment program development, establishment of breeding and cub socialization protocols, staff training and mentoring, public speaking and outreach, as well as research participation, and record maintenance and organization.
- Implemented protocols in coordination with management, veterinary, and research staff to advance care and husbandry practices, particularly for neonates and geriatrics.
Education
Zoology
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ06-2005
Skills
- Program and project management
- Organization, planning and analysis
- Recruitment, mentoring, and personnel development
- Wildlife husbandry and operant conditioning techniques
- Public speaking and community outreach
- Team collaboration and motivation
Additional Information
Tiger SSP Husbandry Advisory Team - Founding member of Tiger Husbandry Advisory Team, which aims to facilitate collaboration among zoological facilities and provide direct mentorship, with the goals of bolstering wildlife welfare standards and improving breeding success.
Serval SSP Vice Coordinator and Studbook Keeper - Maintain current and historical demographic and genetic records of the AZA serval population, to help inform breeding decisions that will enhance the genetic diversity and overall health of the population.
Timeline
Lead Wildlife Care Specialist
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
04.2018 - Current
Senior Wildlife Care Specialist
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
09.2008 - 04.2018
Zoology
Northern Arizona University
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