
Giovanni (Gio) Festa – Executive Director
Gio joined Stanley Park Ecology as Executive Director in March 2025. Nature has always played a central role in Gio’s life - from hiking and skiing since he was a child in the Italian Alps to fly fishing (catch and release!), birdwatching, and mushroom hunting here in Canada. That lifelong connection to the outdoors fuels his commitment to environmental conservation.
With more than 30 years of nonprofit management experience and an MBA in Nonprofit Administration from UBC, Gio brings a wealth of expertise to SPE. He has led organizations in areas including fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and governance, working closely with funders, volunteers, and Boards.
Gio is excited to bring both his experience and love of nature to SPE, supporting its vital work in conservation, education, and stewardship in Stanley Park - connecting people to nature in the heart of the city.