Jim Madison joined the Zoo in 1998 as a frontline employee with the Guest Services department, working as a parking lot attendant and guest services associate during high school and college.

Madison received his degree in business administration from Saint Louis University in 2003. Over his tenure at the Saint Louis Zoo, he has held many positions, including Assistant Manager of Guest Services, Manager of Guest Services and most recently, Director of Business Operations.

In 2019, Madison was named Vice President of Business Operations where he oversees the daily operations of the Zoo's Food & Beverage, Catering, Retail, Attractions, Guest Experience and Distribution & Logistics departments. He is responsible for developing and evaluating business models for new revenue and guest experience-related opportunities. Madison also oversees the traveling exhibit/seasonal programs, including Stingrays at Caribbean Cove (2009-present).

An active participant in International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA), Madison is an IAAPA Certified Attractions Executive. He was selected to participate in Leadership St. Louis, a program of Focus St. Louis, an organization dedicated to engaging citizens to have a greater impact as a leader.