Rich marks 25 years!

The saying ‘mum knows best’ certainly rings true for Richard Brown, after his mum suggested he write to DZC to ask for a job, as today he marks 25 consecutive years working here!

Starting straight from school aged 16, Richard began working on the site’s hoof section and following a brief break in service, he returned to DZC in 2000, and a quarter of a century later has just been promoted to our new Senior Curator.

Richard said: “When I started here, I never thought that one day I would become Senior Curator and I feel really proud to have achieved that.

“Dudley Zoo is a massive part of my life. Not only is it where I met my wife, but it’s a place where we get to care for amazing animals and experience incredible things every single day, which is such a privilege. I’ve got a lot to thank my mum for!”

In honour of his long service, Richard was presented with vouchers and thanked for his dedication to the continuing success of the charity by Zoo Director Matt Lewis.

­Matt said: “I remember interviewing Richard as a shy 16-year-old, but during his time here, he’s excelled in every role, rising through the ranks to Senior Curator.

“We thank him for his loyalty and hard work over the last quarter of a century in helping make DZC what it is today.”