He is a past President of the British Veterinary Zoological Society and committee member for over 10 years and is current immediate Past President of the European College of Zoological Medicine (ECZM) which oversees veterinary training and awards specialisation in exotic pet, zoo and wildlife species to European Qualification Framework Level 8.
Simon Girling has a strong track record in mentoring veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the discipline of zoological medicine, having set up the first ECZM Residency in Zoo Health Management in the UK and the first post graduate course in veterinary nursing of exotic pet, zoo and wildlife species.
Simon Girling currently Chairs DEFRA's Zoo Experts Committee providing specialist advice to the UK and devolved government Ministers on all aspects of the Zoo Licensing Act and the Secretary of State's Standards for Modern Zoo Practice.