Winnie Kiiru, PhD, is a distinguished research scientist and wildlife biologist with more than 25 years of expertise in wildlife management, environmental policy, and global environmental advocacy. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, she has made significant contributions to conservation through her strategic leadership, organizational acumen, and commitment to sustainable development in East Africa. Kiiru is recognized as a thought leader in the wildlife and environmental sectors, with a particular focus on the complex dynamics of protected areas and broader conservation initiatives across the African continent.

Since February 2023, Kiiru has served as the executive director of Mpala, where she continues to advance research, environmental policy, and collaborative conservation partnerships. She played a pivotal role as a founding member of the board of trustees of the Wildlife Research and Training Institute and contributed significantly to its establishment. She has also chaired the board of Karura Forest for the past seven years, helping to preserve the legacy of Professor Wangari Maathai.

In recognition of her contributions to conservation, Kiiru received the Order of the Grand Warrior Award in 2022 and the Woman of Excellence Award in 2016. She earned her doctorate in biodiversity management from the University of Kent in 2012, focusing on human-elephant conflict around Amboseli National Park in Kenya.