Charlie Wright is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Denver in their nonprofit leadership master’s degree program.

He retired in 2024 after serving as the CFO and treasurer for the Denver Zoo and the Colorado Zoological Trust for nine years. Previously, he was senior vice president, finance and administration, for two years at Mile High United Way. His prior background includes more than 14 years as a partner with Ernst & Young, where he led teams of professionals on financial advisory assignments, including merger and acquisition engagements, litigation services assignments, and major restructuring projects. He also spent more than 10 years as a C-level executive with a prominent private sports and entertainment company, including serving as general manager and CFO of the Colorado Rapids.

Charlie has served as a member of the board of directors of many entities, including public companies and not-for-profit organizations. Previously, he served as president of the Denver Pops Orchestra. He received a Forever Duke Award for volunteer service in 2022 and served as the 2024 Sarratt Society Chair for the Owen School at Vanderbilt University.

Charlie earned his MBA from the Owen School at Vanderbilt University and a bachelor’s degree in public policy sciences from Duke University.