The head of London Zoo has resigned during an alleged investigation into his “unacceptable workplace behaviour”.
Matthew Gould, 54, stepped down last week as chief executive of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), which runs London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo. The former Downing Street official and British ambassador to Israel had been in the post since September 2022. He has since updated his LinkedIn profile to say he is “plotting my next move”.
In a letter to staff, ZSL chair of trustees Jim Smith said an “investigation into claims of unacceptable workplace behaviour found that Matthew Gould’s conduct fell below the standard we expect. He resigned before this investigation had concluded.
“We are committed to living up to our values at every level of the organisation and ensuring a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for everyone.”
Smith said ZSL’s executive director had taken over as interim chief executive and was “focused on leading an organisation with honesty, integrity and accountability at its heart”.
In a statement, the charity stressed the matter was not linked to finances. “This investigation was not related to ZSL’s financial operations. This matter was addressed promptly and appropriately, and there are no wider implications for our staff or operations. We are not sharing any further details on an internal matter.
“ZSL’s work continues unchanged and we are committed to maintaining a culture that lives up to our values and ensuring the organisation continues to be a supportive and respectful place to work.”
Gould’s career before joining ZSL spanned senior roles across Whitehall. After serving as ambassador to Israel, he worked in the Cabinet Office and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. In 2019 he became the first chief executive of NHSX, the unit set up to drive digital transformation across NHS health and social care, and played a key role in building the NHS Covid pass.
He is also a long-time friend of former chancellor George Osborne, with the pair having met at the chess club at St Paul’s School in west London. Gould spoke at Osborne’s wedding to Thea Rogers in 2023.
Shortly after joining ZSL, Gould said he had “coveted” the role for decades. “When a friend and fellow ambassador was appointed to the role a few years ago, any joy I felt for him was obliterated by a sharp jealousy that he had got my job,” he admitted.
Gould has been approached for comment.
