12/10/2025

Taylor Gilley, PhD

Dr. Taylor Gilley, Director, Staff learning & Development
Houston Zoo

SESSIONS
Leadership - General Session | Monday, June 1 | 8:00 to 9:30 
"From Development to Departure:  Planning for Success"


ABOUT DR. GILLEY
Dr. Taylor Gilley is a dynamic HR leader and Director of Staff Learning & Development at the Houston Zoo, where she designs innovative leadership, DEIA, and emotional-intelligence programs that strengthen culture and grow talent at every level. A leadership consultant and founder of Tailored Trajectory, Dr. Gilley specializes in coaching leaders through courageous conversations, strategic planning, and personal development using Roche Martin’s EQ framework.

Passionate about building equitable pathways in the zoo and aquarium field, she leads internship initiatives, succession planning pilots, and organization-wide learning experiences that empower staff to thrive. Known for her creativity, humor, and people-centered approach, Dr. Gilley helps teams cultivate empathy, adaptability, and resilience while ensuring institutions preserve knowledge, invest in their people, and prepare for the future.