A FORMER Chester Zoo manager has been appointed director of living collections at Colwyn Bay's Welsh Mountain Zoo.

The newly created role will see Kim Wood take overall managerial responsibility for all animal and plant collections at the National Zoo of Wales.

Kim has worked for several zoos across the UK. She was formerly an assistant team manager at Chester Zoo.

Kim has studied HND Animal Care and Management and ANC Zoo Animal Management. She also holds a BSc Environmental Studies.

She said: "My appointment coincides with the launch of the 10 year strategy which presents some very ambitious plans and opportunities for the zoo during the decade ahead which I’m excited to be part of.

"This role is so varied and spans so many different aspects of the zoo. The role of the modern zoo is incredibly important and ultimately supports the continued existence of so many species across the world.

"Part of my role will be to build further upon our successful work in animal husbandry and continue to push ahead with the fantastic conservation work that the zoo is ultimately committed to.”

Kim will be responsible for a team of approximately 20 staff including 13 zoo keepers. She will work with Jennifer Jesse, director of administration and operations, as well as Neil Morris the director of estates.

Nick Jackson, CEO at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, said: “This is a newly created role that represents an important development for the Zoo moving forward.

"Kim is the ideal person to take on this important role bringing a strong range of practical, hands on and theoretical experience to the position."