Meet ZSL's Directors

At ZSL, we're working towards a world where wildlife thrives. Shaping the future of global wildlife conservation and science, our expert teams are led by a team of dedicated directors, passionate about ensuring nature is at the heart of global decision making.

Matthew Gould, ZSL Director General

Kathryn England, Chief Operating Officer

Kathryn's role includes the management of both London and Whipsnade Zoos - institutions known and loved by millions of people, across many generations, around the world. In addition, she oversees our Marketing and Communications functions, bringing all facets of our organisation together as part of ZSL's wider strategy.

Timon Drakesmith, Chief Financial Officer 

Timon is responsible for the financial management of ZSL as well as IT, procurement, legal, risk reporting and governance services. "My goal is to combine financial performance with mission impact by working with my talented colleagues and supportive external stakeholders"

Catherine Hart, Director of Development

"The work of ZSL has never been more vital. I’m  working with the extraordinary team at ZSL and its supporters to make a greater impact on the world's wildlife."

Owen Craft, Director of Zoo Operations

Owen Craft leads operations across both of our conservation zoos - London and Whipsnade.

“l’m working to create the longer term strategic vision, to ensure we are putting animal care, science and conservation at the heart of our future planning, whilst ensuring we are an attractive visitor proposition operating as sustainably as we can.”

Helen Downton, People Director

Helen is ZSL's People Director which means that she is the lead and Executive member for our People across ZSL - this includes volunteers and staff. 

"I'm passionate about supporting people to thrive in the workplace and love working with an organisation that is truly dedicated to its’ purpose to drive and support a world where wildlife thrives, ensuring that we have a world where we all thrive."

Dr. Andrew Terry, Director of Conservation and Policy

Andrew leads our Conservation and Policy Directorate through the implementation of our new conservation plan across major ecosystem programmes throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. 

"Our core goal is ending the extinction crisis. My role is to harness our leading conservation science and enable its application to have impact on the ground. Our real strength is in developing innovation evidence-led approaches to the many threats faced by the world's wildlife"

Professor Johan du Toit, Director of Science

Professor Johan du Toit oversees the delivery of science across the organisation. He is responsible for the management of the Institute of Zoology, the UK’s leading research institute in conservation science; and Science Resources, which delivers our public events and oversees our library. 

Claire McKeown, Director of Estates Transformation

Claire leads on bringing our masterplans to life.

“I’m delighted to be joining ZSL as it approaches its 200th year. It is an organisation with such a rich history, along with some distinctive, significant and challenging buildings. I’m keen to use my experience to maximise the potential of our sites, creating exciting and pioneering destinations that will captivate our visitors for generations to come."
 

Find out more about our mission – ZSL 200