Member News

ROYAL OAK, Mich. (Sept. 3, 2024) — The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) announced today the hiring of Michael Bowers as the nonprofit’s new chief operating officer (COO). He joins the DZS after spending the past 17 years at Corewell Health, serving most recently as its vice president of planning, design and construction. 

As the DZS’s new COO, Bowers leads and oversees a number of teams, including the nonprofit’s construction, facilities, operations, security and sustainability departments – all comprised of individuals who are dedicated to the DZS’s mission of creating meaningful connections between people, animals and the natural world so all can thrive.  

“At the core of facility operations in healthcare, our role was to provide safe, compliant and comfortable environments for patients, visitors and staff,” Bowers said. “Those same principles apply to operations at the DZS, concentrating on the critical and unique habitats and environments for the animals under our care.  I look forward to serving alongside a great team at an exciting time here at the DZS!” 

Bowers has 20 years of experience in the construction and project management fields, having previously worked at Beaumont Health (before its merger with Spectrum Health to transition to Corewell Health) and Lausman Homes. He is an expert in planning, designing and executing complex projects and has led teams throughout his career – spearheading many projects, including the development of Corewell Health’s strategic and master plans.  

“Mike has achieved many notable accomplishments throughout his career, and we are thrilled to have him join the DZS team,” said Dr. Hayley Murphy, executive director and CEO for the DZS. “As we continue to shape the future of the DZS through our strategic and master planning processes, Mike will be an invaluable addition for us. I am looking forward to working together as we move forward and work toward achieving our purpose of igniting positive change for animals and nature.” 

Bowers is a native Michigander who grew up in Troy, Michigan. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in building and construction management from Michigan State University (East Lansing, Michigan). He resides in his hometown of Troy with his wife, Brooke, and their three children.  

About the Detroit Zoological Society:

The Detroit Zoological Society – a renowned leader in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, environmental sustainability and humane education – operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. One of Michigan’s largest paid family attractions, the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak hosts more than 1.3 million visitors annually. Its 125 acres of award-winning naturalistic habitats are home to more than 2,000 animals.