“On behalf of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, I would like to announce that, after an extensive and thorough investigation into a series of anonymous allegations made against Gary Wilson, the panel has concluded that there is no disciplinary case to answer and the disciplinary process is therefore at an end. We are now in discussion with Gary about his return to work at the end of the month.
“This has been an extremely difficult time for all concerned, but especially Gary, his wife and his young family. Gary has been the subject of a deeply unpleasant and malicious smear campaign by person or persons unknown who have chosen a despicable method by which to pursue their own personal agenda to the detriment of the Society, its staff, its members and Gary.
“Gary will resume his position with the society shortly as Director of Business Operations. I would also like to stress that Gary has not been demoted – his position as Interim Chief Operating Officer was always intended to be temporary until the Interim Chief Executive was recruited.
“The Society does understand that there is widespread interest in the exact nature of the varied anonymous allegations made. Much speculative media reporting has occurred, however we would respectfully request that this now comes to an end.
“There has been a robust internal investigation. This detailed investigation has even examined ten years’ worth of documents. We understand that members and staff would have liked the investigation to have been quicker and more open, however we believe that this would have compromised the validity of our findings and the duty of care we have to Gary Wilson.
“The RZSS believes the right conclusion has been reached and we will now be discussing our findings with OSCR. We openly welcome any further investigation on their part.
“The investigation into Iain Valentine has not yet concluded, but we will advise the outcome in due course.
“There is a bright future ahead of the RZSS and we look forward to communicating more fully with many of our members at the EGM tomorrow evening and putting recent events behind us.”
Gary Wilson, Director of Business Operations of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
“I am both relieved and overwhelmed to be publically cleared of any wrongdoing.
“What my family and I have been through these last few months is something I would not wish on anyone. I would ask the person or persons responsible to examine their own conscience.
“I have remained committed to the organisation throughout all of this and look forward to returning to work and helping the RZSS achieve their goals and objectives.”
