ATLANTA (February 13, 2025) – The Georgia Aquarium Board of Directors has announced the selection of Travis Burke (pronounced BURR-key) as the new President and CEO. Burke, who has been serving as Interim CEO since the passing of Dr. Brian Davis in August 2024, brings more than 25 years of global experience in marine animal care, aquatic attractions and a deep commitment to advancing the Aquarium’s mission of connecting guests with the wonders of the ocean and protecting marine life.
Steve Koonin, Chairman of the Board of Georgia Aquarium, expressed his confidence in Burke’s leadership. “Travis has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and capability as Interim CEO. His extensive expertise and passion for marine life and education make him the ideal leader to guide Georgia Aquarium into its next chapter.”
Burke, a seasoned leader in the aquarium community, shared his gratitude and vision for the Aquarium’s future. “It is an immense honor to serve as President and CEO of Georgia Aquarium, and I am excited for its future. I am focused on further enhancing our conservation efforts, community outreach, sustainability, and aquarium innovation. As I step into this role officially, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a steward of the great work achieved in the last 20 years and to have a part in ushering in the next 20 years and beyond, and perhaps most importantly, continue to bring the ocean to millions of people each year.”
Burke came to Georgia Aquarium in 2023 as Executive Vice President. In this role, Burke helped manage the teams to some of its best attendance years and to the achievement of Top Workplace of 2024 by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With a career spanning decades and continents, Burke’s expertise includes finance and management, park development, mergers and acquisitions, and operations across the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe. His previous roles, including executive leadership positions in zoological and conservation organizations, as well as the travel and tourism industry have positioned him as a global leader.
As President and CEO, Burke will oversee all aspects of Georgia Aquarium’s operations and strategy, focusing on strengthening its conservation initiatives, expanding public programs, and enhancing the guest experience. Burke will be assuming the CEO position at an exciting time, as the Aquarium prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary on November 23, 2025, and begins to lay the groundwork for the next 20 years.
For Travis Burke’s headshot and additional photos, click here.
Photo credit: Georgia Aquarium
For more information, visit www.georgiaaquarium.org
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Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world with more than 11 million gallons of water and tens of thousands of animals. Located in Atlanta, Ga., it is a premier animal care and research facility that is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquarium, the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Attractions, Humane Certified by American Humane, and a Class R research institution certified by the USDA. By providing guests with unparalleled opportunities to learn about marine life, Georgia Aquarium is dedicated to unlocking the ocean’s wonder for all, providing transformative experiences that inspire a shared responsibility for conserving our aquatic ecosystems.
