John Racanelli
An experienced leader whose career spans 24 years, John Racanelli has managed and marketed both businesses and not-for-profit organizations. Before moving into consulting, John was chief operating officer for Academy Studios, a California firm that designs and builds exhibitions for museums, aquariums and visitor facilities worldwide.
From 1993 through 1998, John served as CEO of The Florida Aquarium, taking it from blueprints to one of Tampa Bay's top cultural attractions. Starting with a staff of four and growing it to over 200, John built the vision, mission and organization of this $100-million public project dedicated to celebrating Florida's natural wonders.
From 1984 to 1993, John was the first Vice President of Marketing and Development for the internationally acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium. Joining the aquarium a year before its grand opening, he oversaw all aspects of marketing and fundraising for the nation’s most successful public aquarium. He also served on the senior management and exhibit development teams.
John majored in marine sciences and environmental planning at the University of California, San Diego and Santa Cruz campuses. He has spent the majority of his professional life in pursuits related to conservation and advocacy for the natural environment, with an emphasis on the world's oceans. A sailor, diver, ocean swimmer and surfer, John practices what he preaches by volunteering for a number of local non-profit conservation organizations.