Benjamin Mee

Benjamin Mee is an author, Zoo Director, and conservation leader whose extraordinary journey from journalist to zoo owner has inspired millions worldwide. A psychology graduate from UCL with an MSc in Science Journalism from Imperial College, he purchased the struggling Dartmoor Zoological Park in 2006 and transformed it into a thriving conservation charity, overseeing over 1,000 conservation projects and extensive research initiatives. His international bestseller We Bought a Zoo, adapted into a Hollywood film starring Matt Damon, chronicles this remarkable story of resilience through profound personal tragedy. Benjamin equips audiences with powerful insights on adaptive leadership, courageous decision making, and succeeding against overwhelming odds, delivering his message with natural storytelling warmth, humour, and authenticity that leaves lasting impact.

When a dilapidated zoo in Devon faced permanent closure in 2006, Benjamin Mee made a decision that would transform not only his own life but the future of wildlife conservation in the UK. With no prior experience in zoo management, he purchased Dartmoor Zoological Park and set about turning it into a thriving conservation charity, navigating the immense challenge of opening the zoo in July 2007 whilst grieving the loss of his wife Katherine. What began as an audacious leap of faith has evolved into a remarkable legacy of conservation impact, with the zoo now having undertaken over 1,000 conservation projects and 1,600 research initiatives under his leadership. His story became the international bestseller We Bought a Zoo, published in 23 countries, and inspired the 2012 Hollywood film starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson.

Benjamin's credibility stems from a unique combination of scientific training, journalistic expertise, and lived conservation experience. A psychology graduate from UCL with an MSc in Science Journalism from Imperial College, he built his early career writing for The Guardian and Men's Health, researching animal intelligence and the evolution of humour. This foundation in science communication has proved invaluable in his role as Zoo Director, where he translates complex conservation challenges into compelling public engagement. His rare dual perspective as both insider and communicator led to his appointment to the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums Communications and Development Committee, where he champions the vital conservation and research work of zoos across the UK. He also serves as an Ambassador for Brain Tumour Research, playing a key figure in their media and publicity campaigns. Benjamin continues to drive ambitious sustainability projects at Dartmoor Zoo, including a major reservoir initiative expected to complete by 2029, alongside his broader conservation work through The Wild Agency.

Benjamin equips audiences with practical insights on adaptive leadership, courageous decision making, and succeeding against overwhelming odds. Speaking to organisations from retail professionals to corporate leadership teams, he delivers his message with natural storytelling warmth, integrity, and humour that keeps audiences captivated throughout. His presentations on leadership and change management draw directly from the realities of transforming a failing business whilst facing profound personal tragedy, offering authentic lessons on resilience, risk taking, and perseverance. Whether addressing themes of conservation, business recovery, or motivation in adversity, Benjamin tailors each talk to resonate with his audience's specific challenges, leaving them with memorable, actionable strategies and a renewed sense of what becomes possible when courage meets commitment.