Northside Business Leaders

September 17, 2010

Janet Johnson

Deputy Director of Operations

Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

Janet Johnson was gracious enough to allow us to interview her twice for the “Spotlight.” The first part was conducted in the Administrative Offices where she told us about herself.

We all know she works at the zoo. She oversees all the financial aspects of it, and she also has marketing responsibilities.

Janet grew up in Lake Butler, and went to FSU. After that, she lived in Atlanta for a while. She moved back to the St. Augustine area and worked at Marine Land for 8½ years. Then, she moved to Jacksonville and joined the Zoo.

She loves being outside, and enjoys visiting her favorite animals: all cats, elephants, giraffes, and the birds. She tells me the most challenging part of her job is Human Resource issues.

In her spare time, Janet loves to spend time with her husband of 40 years. They garden, cook, play with the two cats, and occasionally travel. Her favorite destination is Africa. She loved visiting, and hopes to go back.

The second part of the interview was conducted during Spooktacular. For this, you MUST watch the video. Janet took us to all of the different zones. In short, we saw giraffes, a playful jaguar, a Pirate’s Cove, an Enchanted Forest, 3 different “Scary Zones,” many carved and painted pumpkins, and we had a great time. I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND PUTTING SPOOKTACULAR ON YOUR “TO DO” LIST. There is something for everyone, and we had a great time!

Thank you, Janet, for entering the “Spotlight” (twice) and as always, thank you to Paul Forte for videotaping. A Special Note: Paul’s wife Hallie, helped with production.

Shannon Elian,  PropVoice Management