I’ve been working in ocean conservation for almost a decade now, which feels like a lifetime and strangely just a few moments. Learning about marine ecosystems, the challenges they face and how we can support them is a lifelong passion. I work strategically to lead global ocean conservation initiatives, bringing together partners to collaborate effectively and drive impact. The community I meet in this space give me hope that a small group of people can change the world. Blue Marine Foundation occupies a powerful niche, acting rapidly and flexibly as a catalyst for conservation good. Our young, dynamic and increasingly diverse team holds a huge depth of specialist knowledge. As Ocean and Climate Director, I work across several pillars including marine protected areas, fighting unsustainable fishing and marine habitat restoration.I have helped to grow Blue Marine into one of the most dynamic and impactful marine conservation charities in Europe and as part of the leadership team help to steer the organisation towards ever greater impact. I approach my work with rigour, developing strategic partnerships (we have over 200 partner organisations), winning financial support (our turnover is consistently over £10m/a), liaising with and bringing on board new projects (we are active in over 30 countries), interfacing with politicians and civil servants and being an advocate for the ocean internationally. I speak regularly and broadly about ocean conservation, the challenges we face and the opportunity currently before us. My two other passions, writing and surfing, inform my wider work. I am very grateful to sit on the board of Surfers Against Sewage, Hometree and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.