The Council of the Zoological Society of Ireland (ZSI), which is responsible for the running of Dublin Zoo is pleased to announce the appointment of Andy Beer, Director of Zoo Management Studies at Sparsholt College Hampshire to the Council.

Andy has been the Sparsholt Zoo Course Manager responsible for the training of keepers throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland since 2003 via the Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals and has a unique insight into keeper training and development. For the last 16 years, he has personally mentored and provided tutorial support to all keepers from Dublin Zoo who have been enrolled on the course as part of their professional development.

He also leads the CMI course in Zoo Leadership. In addition, he has been the Zoo Nutritionist at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (Edinburgh Zoo and the Highland Wildlife Park) since 2009.

ZSI is the body responsible for overseeing the running of Dublin Zoo, Ireland’s number one  family attraction. Located across 28 hectares, Dublin Zoo welcomes over 1,200,000 visitors per year and is home to over 600 animals in an environment where education and conservation combine for an exciting and unforgettable experience.

Andy commented, “I am very pleased to be joining The Council of the Zoological Society of Ireland. It has been a wonderful experience to work with Dublin Zoo for over 15 years already by educating such dedicated keepers. I am looking forward to working with the Council and assisting them in their goal of ensuring that the Zoo continues to be a major force in the conservation of endangered species globally and educating the public in the key issues.”

Dublin Zoo Director, Leo Oosterweghel commented: “Dublin Zoo warmly welcomes such an experienced zoo professional to its Council and looks forward to many more successful years ahead.”