Meet the team

World Land Trust has a dedicated team committed to protecting the world’s most threatened habitats. Working closely with our global conservation partners, we combine expertise, innovation and a shared passion for safeguarding biodiversity to create lasting, measurable impact.

Catherine Barnard

CEO

Catherine Barnard

CEO

Dr Catherine Barnard has been CEO of World Land Trust (WLT) since 2019, guiding the organisation through some of its most impactful conservation years. During her time as CEO, WLT has protected as much land as it did in its first 30 years. She has also led a comprehensive programme of organisational transformation, helping to build a stronger foundation for long-term conservation success.

Chloe Barnes

Fundraising & Engagement Manager

Chloe Barnes

Fundraising & Engagement Manager

I joined WLT in 2019 and am currently Fundraising and Engagement Manager. I oversee WLT’s relationships with individual donors, regular givers and fundraisers, and I’m committed to ensuring every supporter feels valued for their contribution to the Trust’s vital work. Having grown up in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, I’ve been passionate about nature from a young age, and pursuing a BSc in Biology with a placement at a conservation charity confirmed that I wanted to work in a field where I could help create positive change for our planet. Outside of work, I enjoy reading and spending time in nature.

Sabrina Barrett

Data Developer

Sabrina Barrett

Data Developer

My background is mostly in engineering, data, and project management, with a brief stint working on a National Trail prior to joining WLT. I joined WLT in 2025 and work as a Data Developer; this means that I get to work on projects to help folks across WLT with all things related to data, analytics, and automation! Outside of work I have many (arguably too many) hobbies. I am a big fan of top rope and lead climbing and have recently started East Anglian folk dancing and playing the drums.

Charlotte Beckham

Senior Conservation Programmes Manager

Charlotte Beckham

Senior Conservation Programmes Manager

I joined WLT in 2009 as an intern after gaining a BSc in Biological Sciences (Zoology) from Leicester University. I have held roles in the communications and programmes teams and now oversee the implementation of WLT’s conservation projects with our 50+ in-country conservation partners and directly manage our projects in the Americas. I have over 15 years’ experience working with local conservation NGO’s and conservationists around the world to bring about effective habitat protection. I love working with our project partners and believe conservation is only possible and sustainable when prioritising people who live and work alongside nature.

Rekha Bhandari

Corporate Partnerships Officer

Rekha Bhandari

Corporate Partnerships Officer

I joined WLT as a Corporate Partnerships Officer in January 2023. I work with the Corporate team to help build new relationships with companies and support ongoing partnerships with our existing corporate partners. When I’ve got some free time, I love being out in nature, spending time with my family, and watching all kind of sports. I really like mind games, the cliff hangers and weird endings that leaves you questioning everything so hand me a suspense or psychological thrillers, whether it’s book or movie, I’m hooked.

Mel Blagden

Finance Business Officer

Mel Blagden

Finance Business Officer

I joined WLT in 2013 as a Purchase Ledger Assistant and have since progressed to the role of Finance Business Officer. I enjoy staying active through running and walking. In 2022, my husband and I took part in the London Marathon, raising funds for the Borneo Plant a Tree programme. This initiative was especially meaningful to us following a family holiday to Borneo in 2019, where we visited WLT partner Hutan and witnessed their incredible reforestation work first hand.

Sam Block

Administration Assistant

Sam Block

Administration Assistant

I joined WLT in 2022 and currently work as Administration Assistant.

Alice Boone

Supporter Care

Alice Boone

Supporter Care

I joined WLT in January 2018 and currently work as Supporter care assistant.

Dan Bradbury

Director of Brand and Communications

Dan Bradbury

Director of Brand and Communications

I joined WLT in January 2013, following a career in the private sector as an illustrator, and packaging designer. My passion for the natural world and commitment to sustainability led me to apply my creative skills to global conservation. Initially focused on enhancing WLT’s digital media presence, my role has since evolved across communications and fundraising. I am now Director of Brand and Communications, working to raise awareness of the vital conservation efforts carried out by WLT and its international partners.

Outside work, I spend as much time as I can on my bike, riding whenever and wherever the opportunity arises. I am also a keen birder with a growing life list, and I enjoy drawing in my spare time, using it as another way to connect with the natural world

Gwynne Braidwood

Senior Conservation Programmes Officer

Gwynne Braidwood

Senior Conservation Programmes Officer

I joined WLT in 2017 and currently work as Senior Conservation Programmes Officer, managing WLT’s Asia programme and working closely with in-country partners to bring land under conservation protection. I am passionate about empowering local communities to protect the living world and believe that lasting conservation must be locally led. Outside of work, I am happiest in nature — gardening, walking, and heading off on campervan adventures. I also enjoy climbing, crafting, and curling up with a good book.

Matt Brazier

Head of Information Governance and Technology

Matt Brazier

Head of Information Governance and Technology

I joined WLT in April 2025 and currently serve as the Head of Information Governance and Technology. With a background in IT strategy, innovation, transformation, and cyber-security, I bring over two decades of experience driving business change. At WLT, I lead initiatives that ensure secure, efficient, and forward-thinking business solutions. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring emerging technologies, travelling (over 70 countries visited so far), and taking my dog on long countryside walks.

Susan Bunting

Head of Finance

Susan Bunting

Head of Finance

I am a Chartered Accountant with over 35 years of experience in the finance sector. I spent 21 years in professional accountancy practice, specialising in charities and GP practices, before serving as Director of Finance for a large Norfolk-based charity for 14 years.

I joined WLT in January 2025 as Head of Finance, bringing with me a deep commitment to financial stewardship and a passion for environmental conservation. I am honoured to be part of an organisation dedicated to protecting threatened habitats and saving endangered species.

Outside of work, I enjoy countryside walks with my dog, amateur photography, drawing, and singing—activities that reflect my appreciation for nature and creativity.

Kirsty Burgess

Supporter Care Assistant

Kirsty Burgess

Supporter Care Assistant

With a background in Ecology, I first joined World Land Trust in 2000 and spent 15 years working within the Programmes Team, before taking a break to focus on family and to complete a teaching degree. After working in education for 6 years, I returned to WLT in September 2025 in an administrative role within the Supporter Care Team, and also spend my days off volunteering for a local environmental education charity. I love exploring the Suffolk countryside with my two beagles, Juno and Lola, and am always happiest on the beach – even in winter!

Tracey Butler

Corporate Partnerships Manager

Tracey Butler

Corporate Partnerships Manager

Originally from England’s south coast, I’ve lived the majority of my life in Canada where I studied and worked in photography – including archaeological, self-directed documentary projects and as a black and white photographic printer – alongside roles in communications and television production. Upon returning to the UK, I joined WLT in 2016. My current role as Corporate Partnerships Manager allows me to work with a great team to develop long-term partnerships with businesses with shared values. Personally, I continue to be inspired by travel, photography and other art forms, cooking and the natural world.

Anne Clifford

Major Giving Manager

Anne Clifford

Major Giving Manager

Following a degree in Archaeology and Anthropology, I joined WLT in 2003. Having worked extensively across the Development team, with breaks to raise a family, I am now Major Giving Manager. Outside work, I have a strong interest in regenerative farming and rewilding, and am a keen writer of fiction.

Flavia Collina

Communications Project Manager

Flavia Collina

Communications Project Manager

I joined WLT in 2021 and work as a Communications Project Manager, overseeing a variety of communications projects across the organisation. I bring experience from marketing agencies in London, where I developed skills in brand strategy and campaign management.

In my spare time, I enjoy getting lost in a good book, discovering new music, and heading to gigs and festivals.

Richard Cuthbert

Director of Conservation

Richard Cuthbert

Director of Conservation

I joined WLT as Director of Conservation in 2018 and lead on the strategic direction of conservation programmes and the expanding network of global partners. A conservation scientist by training, I ensure that WLT’s work aligns with international priorities and delivers meaningful benefits for biodiversity, the climate, and local communities. With more than twenty years of experience, I have worked in over thirty countries with organisations such as the RSPB, BirdLife partners in South Asia and the UK Overseas Territories, and the Wildlife Conservation Society in Papua New Guinea. I hold a BSc in Zoology from the University of Newcastle and a PhD from the University of Otago, and have published more than 120 peer reviewed papers. I’m a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission and World Commission on Protected Areas, and a visiting researcher at the University of Cambridge. Outside work I enjoy climbing, mountain biking, gardening, walking his dog, and anything related to cricket.

Beth Dickens

Creative Officer

Beth Dickens

Creative Officer

I have a background working for international conservation charities as a freelance designer, with a degree in Environmental Science. I joined World Land Trust in 2025 as Creative Officer where I get to combine my passion for conservation and visual storytelling. Outside of work, I love to travel, explore new cultures, and I’m happiest when being creative or spending time outdoors.

Liz Doble

Supporter Care

Liz Doble

Supporter Care

I joined WLT in 2022, with a background in Support and Administration across various sectors. Initially I looked after the daily administration of the
WLT Friends Programme and am currently Supporter Care Officer, providing support to our Corporate Partnership team and retaining an oversight of WLT Friends administration.
I grew up in rural Dorset, where my love of the natural world began, and later studied Geography at London University. Working at WLT felt like the perfect way to combine my interests with my professional work experience.
Outside work I’m an avid reader who enjoys photography, gardening & walking our dog.

Emma Douglas

Director of Development

Emma Douglas

Director of Development

I joined WLT in April 2020 and lead the Development Department, driving global fundraising across major donors, corporate partnerships, trusts, foundations, individual giving, legacies and emerging regenerative finance such as carbon credits. I focus on strategic growth, donor stewardship and building strong, long-term philanthropic partnerships to maximise WLT’s conservation impact worldwide.

Outside work, I am an avid cyclist, enjoying social café rides and taking on challenging routes in Mallorca and Sardinia. I also love the outdoors and often explore the Suffolk countryside with my black Labrador, Toby, combining my passion for nature with my zest for life.

Jade Drew

Supporter Care

Jade Drew

Supporter Care

I joined WLT in August 2021 and my current role is within the Supporter Care Team, where I get to connect with people who also share a passion for protecting nature.

MELISSA EAMES

Finance Manager

MELISSA EAMES

Finance Manager

I’ve been part of the WLT family since 2007, supporting the Trust through many years of growth and change. As Finance Manager, I work behind the scenes in the finance department, helping to keep everything running smoothly.
Outside of work, I love nothing more than exploring the countryside with my dogs, spending quality time with my grandchildren, and discovering new and exciting places.
Natalie Finnerty

Natalie Finnerty

Social Media Officer
Natalie Finnerty

Natalie Finnerty

Social Media Officer

I joined WLT in March 2026 as a social media officer.

I have spent the past 15 years in the non-profit sector, working across all areas of digital and strategic communications.

In my spare time I love to spend as much time outdoors as possible, especially going on long walks to tire out my two boys!

Scott Guiver

Website Officer

Scott Guiver

Website Officer

I started working with WLT in 2014, after many years working in the signage industry, designing and manufacturing signs.

I have a deep love for the natural world and I am a keen birdwatcher and wildlife photographer, often combining those hobbies with travel and riding my motorcycle.

I am immensely proud to work for WLT and see it as a vocation, and I'm often in awe of WLT's partners, who do such incredible work. I have also volunteered for WLT partner REGUA, in Brazil, as well as serving as a nature reserve warden and a guide for conservation NGOs based in the UK.

Tristian Herbert

Copywriter

Tristian Herbert

Copywriter

I joined World Land Trust in 2024 as a Copywriter, where I create reports, features, and news articles that share the impact of our conservation work.

Before joining WLT, I worked in science journal editing, environmental filmmaking, and digital communications at the University of Exeter. Outside of work, I really enjoy cycling, sea swimming (before it gets too cold!), and dinghy sailing.

Mercy Kariuki

Conservation Programmes Manager (Africa projects)

Mercy Kariuki

Conservation Programmes Manager (Africa projects)

I am a dedicated environmental resource conservationist with over a decade of experience in biodiversity conservation and community-based initiatives across Africa. My career spans roles with leading organisations such as Fauna & Flora and BirdLife International. I am a Kinship Conservation Fellow with an MPhil in Conservation Leadership from the University of Cambridge.

I joined WLT in 2022 as a Conservation Programmes Manager for Africa. I collaborate with partners to deliver impactful conservation projects that protect habitats, empower local communities, and foster sustainable solutions for nature.

Outside work, I enjoy being outdoors, exploring the beauty of nature, birdwatching, hiking, mountain climbing.

Beth Lankester

Marketing Officer

Beth Lankester

Marketing Officer

I joined WLT in January 2023 after working in the marketing team at a newspaper and magazine publishing company. In my current role as Marketing Officer, I enjoy telling stories from our conservation partners around the world and sharing WLT’s work with our supporters. Outside of work I’m often found reading or going for long walks with my dog Teddy. Having studied Theatre and Performance at University, I'm also a huge musical theatre fan and even perform in a few am-dram productions in my free time.

Robynne Lawley

Carbon Audit Advisor

Robynne Lawley

Carbon Audit Advisor

My background is in carbon accounting, research and education and as a Geography postgraduate I have worked for conservation charities, a government quango and also in schools. I joined WLT in 2016 and as Carbon Audit Advisor I enjoy assisting organisations to Carbon Balance the footprint for their business to support sustainability goals whilst protecting critically threatened habitat. I have a passion for wildlife and participated in many conservation projects including tracking lemurs and fossa in Madagascar. I spend my free time exploring the outdoors; walking in the forest or along the Suffolk coast.

Mary McEvoy

Carbon Programme Manager

Mary McEvoy

Carbon Programme Manager

I began my career with three years in the UK consultancy sector, conducting ecological surveys, carrying out detailed analysis and developing meaningful mitigation measures for UK protected species including birds, mammals and herpetofauna. Before joining WLT, I also volunteered on long-term research projects, surveying mahogany in Belize, studying insects in the treetops of New Zealand’s temperate rainforest and monitoring macaws in the Peruvian Amazon.

I joined WLT in 2008 and am now the Carbon Programme Manager, overseeing the design and implementation of projects within WLT’s Carbon Balanced portfolio. My role involves supporting partners in developing, certifying and monitoring high-quality, high-integrity and commercially successful nature-based carbon projects. My long experience working with WLT’s network of in-country conservation partners has helped me build strong relationships that strengthen and complement our work.

Outside work, I have always loved making things and particularly enjoy crafting paper flowers and creating elaborate cakes. My happy places are the deep quiet of a forest or walking along a crashing coast. I also love to sing and swim.

Claire Millard

Supporter Care Manager

Claire Millard

Supporter Care Manager

I first joined World Land Trust in 1996 as Clerical Assistant, part of a small team of fewer than 10 people led by its Founders. Having held various roles, I took time out to raise my son and daughter, returning in 2009 to support WLT’s growing operations. Since then, I have managed the administration of our Corporate Partners and stepped into my current role, leading the Supporter Care team, at the end of 2022. This position allows me to continue to share my deep commitment to WLT, my passion for connecting supporters with WLT’s mission and the impact their generosity.

Christiana Moffatt

Major Giving Officer

Christiana Moffatt

Major Giving Officer

With a professional background in both film production and philanthropy, I joined WLT in Spring 2024 as Major Giving Officer within the Major Giving Team. My interests encompass the natural environment, the arts, and the humanities.

Leila Pain

Senior Technical Officer

Leila Pain

Senior Technical Officer

I have experience utilising GIS tools to support carbon project scoping and development, database management, and in supporting local environmental project management. Additionally, I have a background in international law and economics.
I joined WLT in 2021 and my role is Senior Technical Officer.
In my spare time I volunteer with a local wildlife rehabilitation centre and as a Marine Mammal Medic with British Divers Marine Life Rescue. I also love to run (slowly!) and get out and about with my dogs.

James Pearce

CRM Manager

James Pearce

CRM Manager

I joined WLT in 2023 as CRM Manager, where I focus on improving supporter journeys, data processes, and automation to enhance conservation impact. My previous roles include work in reptile conservation, horse welfare, and charity fundraising. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, reading, and writing.

Krista Pluksna

Senior Administrator

Krista Pluksna

Senior Administrator

I joined WLT in April 2024 and currently work as a Senior Administrator. I support the team with operational coordination and administrative processes, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Outside of work I’m an enthusiastic plant lover and enjoy nurturing greenery at work and home, as well as spending time outdoors – hiking, climbing, camping, mushroom-picking. Fun fact: I speak three languages, which definitely comes in handy from time to time!

Debby Porter

People Manager

Debby Porter

People Manager

My work related experience is in providing HR support within the charitable and local government sectors, and I joined WLT in 2019. My role is People Manager, which is a broad generalist role, giving me the opportunity to connect with staff from recruitment through to leaving and all of the experiences in between. I appreciate my 9-day fortnight working pattern and hybrid working opportunities, which allow me to pursue other interests outside of work and balance my wider responsibilities.

Shahbeana Qureshi

Finance Assistant

Shahbeana Qureshi

Finance Assistant

I am a dedicated Finance Assistant based in Halesworth, Suffolk. I began my career as a Specialist Teaching Assistant, supporting children with special educational needs across various schools. Driven by a passion for numbers and organisation, I completed my AAT qualification in bookkeeping and transitioned into finance. I gained valuable experience in a purchase ledger role at a shipping company before moving into my current position, where I handle the core financial operations that keep our team running smoothly.

Outside of work, I love travelling, spending quality time with my family and embracing new adventures and activities.

Christie Reed

Copywriter

Christie Reed

Copywriter

I joined WLT in 2023 with a background in environmental science and conservation journalism. As a Copywriter, I help to share stories of WLT’s mission and the impact of our partners' work with our supporters. Outside of work, you’ll probably find me surfing, hiking, or exploring the outdoors.

Emma Shearing

Technology Manager

Emma Shearing

Technology Manager

I love helping people and supporting meaningful causes, especially within the non‑profit sector. With a technology‑focused career, my role at World Land Trust brings these together. Outside of work, I enjoy going on adventures and I volunteer on several non‑profit boards to help organisations use technology effectively.

Elizabeth Stone

Chief Operating Officer

Elizabeth Stone

Chief Operating Officer

I began my career in accountancy practice, but it quickly became clear that my passion lay in the not-for-profit sector. After a decade in practice, I transitioned into mission-driven organisations, taking on various financial roles at the National Trust and a Bristol-based community farm. This path eventually led me to become Executive Director of a charity supporting adults with learning disabilities.

Having joined WLT in September 2012 as Head of Finance and since December 2018 serving as Chief Operating Officer, I continue to draw on my foundation as a trained accountant, my love for data and spreadsheets remains strong! I also bring a sharp focus to ensuring that every penny raised is used to further WLT’s mission and make a meaningful impact.

Patricia Teixeira

Fundraising & Engagement Officer

Patricia Teixeira

Fundraising & Engagement Officer

I joined WLT in January 2025 as a Fundraising and Engagement Officer, supporting individual and community fundraising efforts that make our conservation work possible. Before joining WLT, I worked in education as a philosophy teacher and eco club leader, and in the charity sector supporting people into employment. I'm passionate about protecting the environment and living sustainably, and I enjoy being outdoors, going for long walks, martial arts (karate in particular), reading, and working on crafts/creative projects.

Kizzy Thompson

People Assistant

Kizzy Thompson

People Assistant

I joined WLT in 2022 as People Administration Assistant supporting the People Team and wider organisation.

Tracey White

Executive Assistant

Tracey White

Executive Assistant

I joined WLT in January 2016. My current role at WLT is Executive Assistant to Catherine Barnard, and I also support the Board of Governance.
After relocating to Suffolk in 2015, I was keen to apply my skills in a more meaningful way. Discovering WLT right on my doorstep felt like a perfect opportunity, and I was thrilled to become part of a passionate team dedicated to making a real difference for our planet.

Outside of work, I enjoy walking with my dog, especially in our beautiful local forests and along the Suffolk coastline, where I love spotting wildlife and appreciating the natural world.