Zoos SA to launch global recruitment strategy as boss announced retirement

Adelaide and Monarto zoos will be looking far afield for a new boss after the current veteran chief made a major career announcement.

Zoos SA is set to launch a global recruitment strategy for a new chief executive after the current boss announced that she will retire from the position in April next year.

On Thursday, after more than 12 years at the helm, Elaine Bensted announced she will step down as the head of Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park, which she has helped steer through major impacts of Covid, including its effects on the Zoos SA team and conservation programs.

Ms Bensted said there was still unfinished business to take care of before handing over the reins, which included overseeing the welcoming of two new pandas, an Asian elephant habitat and the construction of wild Africa 5-star accommodation at Monarto.

Zoos SA chief executive: Elaine Bensted with spider monkeys.

“I cannot wait to see new giant pandas at Adelaide Zoo, see Asian elephants at Monarto Safari Park, as well as opening world class accommodation and safari tours,” she said.

“I am very proud of what has been achieved and have many proud moments that I will always be able to reflect on. But there is always a very long list of more that we want to achieve.

“I’m looking forward to an exciting next six months and to helping the organisation’s next chief executive to continue the story.”

Ms Bensted said she was “very fortunate” to have been supported by the board in allowing her to lead the organisation for the past 12 years.

During her tenure, Ms Bensted has overseen multiple major projects, including a new Nature’s Playground and the Variety Children’s Zoo at Adelaide Zoo, the construction of the Lions 360 at Monarto Safari Park, and securing funding for a new Visitor Centre at Monarto Safari Park.

Zoos SA chief executive Elaine Bensted meets zoo resident "Tati" the giant Aldabra tortoise on her first day on the job.

Ms Bensted has also helped double the number of members at Zoos SA in her time.

Zoos SA president, Julieann Riedstra, paid tribute to Ms Bensted’s tenure and said there would now be a global recruitment strategy which she would assist in overseeing.

“The Zoos SA board is sad that Elaine is retiring, but very happy for her,” she said.

“She has worked incredibly hard in this role and has achieved a lot to be very proud of.

“There is much to be excited about in the future of the zoo, and we are pleased that we can oversee a structured and smooth transition.”

The Zoos SA board commenced the recruitment process for the next chief executive, who will lead the not-for-profit organisation into the future.