ZSL appoints new Director of Development

FUNDRAISING expert Pippa Carte has been appointed Director of Development at international conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London) – joining on the cusp of the Society’s 200-year anniversary.

The international charity, which conducts world-class research at the ZSL Institute of Zoology, runs field conservation projects in more than 80 countries worldwide and protects thousands of endangered animals at its two conservation zoos, has just unveiled its new five-year strategy, Restoring Nature: A Blueprint for Wildlife Recovery.

The strategy outlines ZSL’s four key commitments to the planet; Protecting Species, Restoring Habitats, Training Conservationists and Creating Change, and guiding the charity’s work through its 200^th anniversary in 2026 and beyond.

Bringing more than 25 years of fundraising experience as a trustee, board member, and senior fundraiser to ZSL, including at WWF-UK and the Galapagos Conservation Trust, Pippa Carte will join the charity’s Executive Committee as leader of the Development team, supporting the implementation of the charity’s Blueprint for Wildlife Recovery with campaigns, partnerships and commitments.

ZSL CEO Matthew Gould said:

“The natural world is facing a crunch point, with climate change, species decline and habitat loss painting a bleak picture – but here at ZSL, we believe nature can recover, and that we can make a difference.

“But our work needs support. We need businesses to get behind our campaigns, we need organisations to invest in the planet and we need individuals to realise the power they hold. I’m delighted that Pippa is joining the ZSL leadership team, at what is not only a pivotal point for nature, but also for our Society. With 200 years of experience behind us, we’re ready to tackle the challenges of the future.”

Pippa Carte said:

“I am ready to join forces with the passionate team at ZSL and bring my fundraising expertise to support their incredible ambition for wildlife, people and the planet.

“Nature conservation has been a guiding force throughout my career, and joining an organisation that embodies my values is very exciting. I am eager to connect with the renowned scientists, conservationists, supporters, zookeepers and indeed animals at London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, who inspire us all to appreciate and protect our natural world.”

ZSL President, Sir Jim Smith, added:

“ZSL’s work has never been more crucial. We’ve just launched our new strategy, outlining our commitments to the planet – we’ve got the scientific evidence, the field expertise and the drive, and with Pippa Carte taking up her new post, we’ll be able to galvanise the support needed to put our plans into action.”

Pippa Carte will begin her role as ZSL’s Director of Development in March 2025, succeeding Catherine Hart, who moved to a new role as CEO of a leading UK cancer charity.

Find out more about ZSL and how to support its global conservation efforts at: www.zsl.org.