Senior Staff

A veterinarian by training with a special interest in wildlife, Dr. Mark joined the North Carolina Zoo as Director and CEO in August 2026. He currently sits on the board of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and serves as a Trustee of Wild Welfare, an animal welfare organization. 

Dr. Mark previously 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. Prior to joining the Zoo, Dr. Mark held the position of vice president of animals, science, and environment for Disney Experiences, part of the Walt Disney Company. There he oversaw animal care, conservation, and environmental initiatives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot, and at Disney parks around the world.