SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance on Tuesday announced a change in leadership. President and CEO Paul Baribault is stepping down after five years with the nonprofit organization. “We are extremely grateful for Paul's leadership and contributions to the institut ion and SDZWA’s advancement in wildlife conservation and as a world-renowned experience for guests of all ages,” said Steven Simpson, Chair of the SDZWA Board of Trustees. “Paul came to SDZWA at a pivotal time as the COVID pandemic hit, and over the past five years, has helped accomplish our goal of furthering our mission and building our reputation as one of the leading wildlife care and conservation organizations in the world." These San Diego areas now considered ‘very high fire hazard’ zones by Cal Fire Some of Baribault's accomplishments include leading the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park reach record attendance with nearly six million visitors annually, helping welcome the first two giant pandas back to the United States in 21 years and spearheading San Diego Zoo Safari Park's Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, which will open in early 2026. “I joined SDZWA in 2019 with the intention of helping to transform this storied institution and positioning it to be a leader in wildlife experiences, conservation leadership, and the pioneering of biodiversity efforts in the 21st century,” Baribault said. “Having led a remarkable team to put the organization on a new and exciting path, and having had the opportunity to see it succeed in remarkable ways, the time feels right for me to pass the baton and pursue my next adventure. I remain in awe of what we did together, and I look forward to supporting this transition to ensure the organization's ongoing success.” Chief Operating Officer Shawn Dixon will assume the role of interim president and CEO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance as the board starts a national search for the position. ...read more read less