New director at our Zoo

As the new Director of Nyíregyháza Zoo Nonprofit Ltd., Dr. Endre Papp will assume leadership of the institution. His appointment is a recognition of a nearly two-decade-long career in zoological and international professional circles, closely connected to the development of Nyíregyháza Zoo and the strengthening of its internationally acknowledged reputation.

For Dr. Endre Papp, a passion for nature has been a defining part of his life since early childhood. Through his parents, he became involved in the activities of local environmental organisations at the age of four. These early experiences shaped his future path, leading him to dedicate his career to wildlife conservation and the care of wild animals.

Dr. Papp began his work at Nyíregyháza Zoo ( SóstóZoo)  as a volunteer in 2003. During his university years, he worked as an animal keeper, and later joined the institution as a veterinarian.

Since 2008, he has served as Head Veterinarian and Vice Director of Zoology at Nyíregyháza Zoo Nonprofit Ltd. In these positions, he has played a key role in the development of veterinary care, species conservation programmes, and the implementation of modern zoological standards and best practices.

His professional achievements have earned him broad international recognition. Over the years, he has held several senior leadership positions within the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).

From 2016 to 2019, he served as Secretary of EAZA, followed by his role as Chair of the Membership and Ethics Committee between 2019 and 2022. Between 2022 and 2025, he served first as Vice Chairman and subsequently as Chairman of EAZA — one of the highest-ranking leadership positions within the European zoo and aquarium community.

Dr. Endre Papp has also contributed to the work of the EAZA Transport Working Group, playing an important role in the development of professional and ethical standards related to animal transportation.

The appointment of the new Director further strengthens the leadership of a professional who has actively shaped the development of Nyíregyháza Zoo for many years. His work is centred on animal welfare, sustainability-focused conservation, education, and the continued expansion of international cooperation.

In recent years, Nyíregyháza Zoo has become one of Europe’s recognised zoological institutions, playing an important role in European breeding programmes, animal welfare initiatives, and educational outreach.

The appointment of Dr. Endre Papp marks a new chapter in the history of Nyíregyháza Zoo, while the institution remains firmly committed to the professional values and development principles that have defined the past three decades in the fields of nature conservation, scientific work, and high-quality visitor experience.