Director General

Director General, ZSL (Zoological Society of London)
Central London

ZSL (Zoological Society of London) is an internationally leading scientific, conservation and educational charity, with a vision of a world where wildlife thrives. Our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals becoming extinct and is delivered through our three strategic priorities: Wildlife and People, Wildlife Health, and Bringing Wildlife Back from the Brink.

Our two zoos, London and Whipsnade, attract 1.5 million visitors annually and are central to our public engagement, citizen science and direct species conservation work. Our Institute of Zoology, a world-renowned research centre, works at the cutting edge of conservation science to conserve animal species and their habitats. And our field programmes apply our knowledge in key landscapes and seascapes where we can effect positive change. As ZSL approaches its 200th anniversary, the challenges facing wildlife are increasing and the rate of extinction is accelerating. Our new ZSL 200 strategy is closely aligned with the UN Global Goals for Sustainable Development relating to life on land and below water, and supports other goals such as climate action, clean water, and health and wellbeing.

We are now seeking an exceptional individual to succeed our current Director General. As Director General, you will provide inspirational and strategic leadership at this exciting time in ZSL’s history, ensuring the successful and timely delivery of ZSL 200. The Director General represents ZSL across the globe with government, educational and scientific organisations, and takes the lead in developing the philanthropic and corporate support which is essential to our current and future conservation efforts. They will also contribute regularly and meaningfully to relevant national and international debate.

To succeed in this high-profile role, you must demonstrate a clear affinity with conservation, along with a strong and sustained track record of senior leadership and management in organisations of comparable scale and complexity. You will have the personal presence, authority and credibility to be the ‘face and voice’ of ZSL, and the ambition and commercial acumen to deliver our masterplan and strategic objectives.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit http://www.odgers.com/84379 Applications are invited by close of business on Friday 8th June 2022.

ZSL values an inclusive working environment. We select candidates on the basis of merit and ability and aspire to further diversify our community. We particularly welcome applications from candidates belonging to groups that have been under-represented at ZSL, but not limited to: Black, Asian and ethnically diverse people, people who identify as LGBTQ+, and disabled people.