Monday 8th March celebrates International Women’s Day. It is a day to recognise the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. With this in mind, we turn to Paradise Wildlife Park’s CEO, Lynn Whitnall. Across the park and the Hertfordshire community, Lynn is revered for her commitment, strength and dedication to Paradise Wildlife Park, the Zoological Society of Hertfordshire and The Big Cat Sanctuary. PR Manager, Anna Tank, spoke to Lynn on 2021’s International Women’s Day.
What is it like being the CEO of Paradise Wildlife Park? Being CEO of Paradise Wildlife Park is a very rewarding and passionate job. I feel very proud to be able to lead an amazing team who not only achieve so much for the animals in our care and our conservation work but also providing families with an educational and fun day out.
What does your daily routine look like? Every day is different and at times can be hectic as you may have an animal who requires veterinary treatment and in the same day, another may give birth. Combined with all the events and activities that we offer here and looking at future developments, there is never a dull moment.
What has been one of your career highlights? One career highlight for me was the official opening of World of Dinosaurs in 2018. It was the first time that one of our projects had been completed on time and has helped transform the park. Not just for the visitor experience but also with education.
Do you have any female role models or inspirations? One role model would be my Mum. She was the first one who helped me in the business world with accounting and finances. One other female who inspired me was Princess Diana. She was a mum first and foremost as am I, a role model to many woman in terms of family life and a career.
What have you been doing to keep yourself positive during the pandemic? Although closed, the park has still been as busy as ever with caring for the animals, developments on site and looking after our teams that are either here working or on furlough. I have also managed to squeeze in 2 marathons, one being the virtual London marathon to raise funds for both of our charities; Zoological Society of Hertfordshire, The Big Cat Sanctuary and Presidents Sporting Club (children in sport with disabilities), therefore exercise has been a big part of keeping positive for me.
