Candidates for Trustee

Standing for re-election. Recommended for: Finance and Accounting  

Personal Statement

Gary Clark, a Chartered Accountant, graduated with a degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Nottingham in 1986. Gary has extensive experience as a non-executive director in a wide range of Regulated Financial Services and commercial businesses and has held senior management positions in fund administration and brokerage businesses in Jersey. As Chairman of the Jersey Funds Association from 2004 to 2007, Gary drove an agenda of commercially effective regulatory change. Gary has been involved with Durrell on its investment committee and as a Trustee since 2014. A serial volunteer, Gary has held honorary roles in the charity and not-for-profit sector for over 30 years. Gary is passionate about Durrell and increasing its impact on the natural world in an ambitious but sustainable way. Gary and his family are all proud members of Durrell. 

Governance Committee Statement

Through his decades of experience as a Chartered Accountant, having held senior positions at local companies as well as on boards, Gary is being recommended for his expertise in finance and accounting. A long-standing member of the Trust and a committed volunteer, Gary brings a huge amount of dedication and passion to the role of Trustee, and his organisational knowledge gained over the last 10 years is a huge asset to the Board.  

Standing for re-election. Recommended for: Communications and Marketing 

Personal Statement

I have worked in communications for nearly 20 years: both in-house and for agencies. I am currently in the communications and marketing team at the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacture and Commerce (RSA), delivering integrated fundraising and awareness campaigns. Before this, I was Group Head of Brand & Content Strategy at Legal & General, a FTSE100 financial services company. I also worked for international law firm, Freshfields, working with colleagues in Europe, Asia and the US on global marketing campaigns. I am passionate about protecting wildlife and have visited conservation projects in countries including Madagascar, Sri Lanka and Guyana. I am based in Brighton where I volunteer for local environment campaigns and am a trustee of the Institute for Employment Studies. 

Governance Committee Statement

Through her experience working in-house for a range of large organisations as well as agencies, Sarah is being recommended for her knowledge and skills in communications and marketing. With her current expertise in integrated fundraising and awareness campaigns, Sarah provides valuable insight and advice in this area, helping to enhance the Trust’s communications and marketing strategies. 

Recommended for: Conservation Science and Training 

Personal statement 

I became a member of DWCT as a boy around 1974, having been a passionate, lifelong advocate for wildlife conservation. After graduating as a veterinarian, I joined the Zoological Society of London where I established a wildlife disease research group. I believe in evidence-based conservation, publishing over 500 scientific articles on wildlife conservation. I have worked extensively in the field in the UK and overseas, having led several international and multi-disciplinary wildlife disease research projects, including investigating vulture declines in South Asia, zoonotic virus emergence from bats and discovering chytrid fungus as a cause of global amphibian declines (for which I was co-awarded a medal by the CSIRO in Australia). I discovered a new viral disease of amphibians in Europe, published the first report of the extinction of a species by an infectious disease and led the group that identified trichomonosis as the cause of greenfinch declines in the UK. 

Governance Committee Statement

As Professor of Wildlife Epidemiology and Deputy Director of Science at ZSL’s Institute of Zoology, Andrew is being recommended for his experience in conservation science and training. Having been elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for meritorious contributions to learning, Andrew would provide guidance and support to Durrell in respect of both the Academy and the Trust's rigorous science-based approach to conservation. Andrew is also a seasoned trainer and mentor for the next generation of conservation scientists, including as a guest lecturer at Durrell Conservation Academy. 

Standing for re-election. Recommended for: Wildlife Conservation 

Personal Statement

An independent consultant with over 30 years' experience with zoo-based wildlife conservation organisations, I have served as the Durrell Board Chair since October 2023. As former Director of Conservation at the Zoological Society of London, I led ZSL's international field programme, working alongside governments, NGO partners and local communities to protect endangered species and habitats. I joined ZSL after 30 years with the Bronx Zoo-based Wildlife Conservation Society, where I served as Chief Executive for WCS Europe having previously led country programmes in Madagascar – where I was instrumental in the creation of Masoala and Sahamalaza National Parks – and Congo, where I helped establish Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. I worked closely with Zoo Zürich on the ground-breaking Masoala Rainforest Hall and have co-authored two books on zoos and wildlife conservation. I have served on the boards of more than a dozen organisations working in the field of international wildlife conservation. 

Governance Committee Statement

Combining hands-on experience in the field with senior positions at international wildlife conservation organisations, Matthew is being recommended for his expertise in conservation. At ZSL, Matthew led the organisation’s field programmes in over 50 countries worldwide. As former Programme Director for WCS in Madagascar, he knows the difficulties of running conservation programmes under challenging circumstances. Matthew has substantial experience as an NGO trustee and a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in this area. 

Recommended for: Corporate Governance and Investment 

Personal Statement

Niall has extensive international leadership and board experience in wealth management and fiduciary services, specialising in corporate governance and strategy. He is a respected financial services figure and was formerly President of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) for Jersey and remains active through his role on the institute’s Membership Committee. Niall’s career has been spent in highly regulated businesses where adherence to all risk management, financial reporting and anti-corruption measures is critical. He ran substantial wealth management businesses across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa for HSBC before returning to Jersey in 2012, since which time he has worked with institutions and private clients to design and implement effective control frameworks, often being appointed to oversight committees or boards. He has volunteered with Durrell since 2020, initially with treasury and investment matters prior to being co-opted to the Board of Trustees at the start of 2024. 

Governance Committee Statement

The former President of CISI for Jersey, Niall is being recommended for his skills in corporate governance and investment. A qualified investment and banking professional, Niall has extensive regulated board experience and would bring valuable expertise in corporate governance and strategy to the Board. 

Recommended for: Professional Directorship

Personal statement

Richard graduated with a Zoology degree; after two years working overseas in the field he moved to Jersey, pursuing a career change as a Chartered Accountant. Since qualifying as an FCA he has been involved in the finance industry, being appointed to boards of listed and unlisted companies, some as Chair. He has experience of strategic discussions at multi-jurisdictional levels, always enjoying a good working relationship with fellow board members, both executive and non-executive. As a non-executive, Richard is well versed in managing the balance between supporting and challenging the executive team. A passionate Durrell supporter, Richard has been a zoo member for many years and a Gardien since 2020. Enthusiastic about education and the Trust’s projects globally, he has sponsored a DESMAN student and visited Madagascar to witness Durrell’s conservation work first-hand. Richard understands the continuing importance of the zoo locally as well as Durrell’s significant impact worldwide. 

Governance Committee Statement

Having spent 35 years working in the finance industry, with extensive experience on the Boards of numerous listed and non-listed companies, Richard is being recommended for his expertise in professional directorship. Spending three years as Durrell’s Chef de Gardiens, Richard would also provide valuable ambassadorial experience to the Board. 

Recommended for: Zoo Management

Personal statement  

I have worked in the Zoo community for over 25 years, fulfilling roles within all areas of zoo mission. Having started as a keeper, I worked to become a head of section before developing my research skills. I have been the CEO of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums and held roles within the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, including vice-chair of the Association. My recent roles have included the Director of Conservation at Wild Place Trust, working with the living collections of two zoos, overseeing the managing of three reserves, including a National Nature Reserve, and the planning of the UK and overseas conservation projects. My current role at Plymouth University revolves around the development of an online MSc for the zoo and aquarium community. I currently live in Brixham, Devon. I participate in Cornish Pilot Gig Rowing and have rowed in the World Championships. 

Governance Committee Statement

With extensive experience working in zoos, alongside her roles as CEO of BIAZA and Vice-Chair of EAZA, Kirsten is being recommended for her expertise in zoo management. Now a university lecturer providing courses in zoo and aquarium leadership and management, Kirsten  would bring a wealth of knowledge, strategic insight, and a valuable network to the Trust. 

Recommended for: Fundraising and Philanthropy  

Personal statement

Formerly Director of Development at Chester, John set up its first fundraising department. Achievements shared there with colleagues included a $3 million dollar sponsorship from Jaguar Cars. Since leaving Chester he has operated an external funding, strategic planning and public affairs consultancy in the UK and internationally; initially specialising in zoo charities; but later diversifying to act largely for universities and overseas governments (viz: the ‘National Bio Parc’ concept). John assisted in winning the £19 million LUP Fund for Twycross (largest grant ever awarded to a UK zoo), earlier securing £3 million from East Midlands Development Agency for the front entrance; and a £1.2 million corporate grant from HSBC. £400,000 was achieved for the Welsh Mountain Zoo. Acting for BIAZA and EAZA, he has made the overall societal case for the ‘zoo’ sector to UK and European governments, composing ‘The Manifesto for Zoos’ in 2004. 

Governance Committee Statement

Through his role as Director of Development at Chester Zoo and experience working with numerous zoos and organisations to achieve multi-million-pound grants, John is being recommended for his expertise in fundraising and philanthropy. John would provide important strategic insight for the Trust in diversifying and increasing fundraising revenue streams. 

Personal statement

My extensive experience working for the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust makes me well placed to be a member of the Board. 45 years dedicated to the conservation philosophy developed by the founder the late Gerald Durrell qualifies me to provide insight and overview on all aspects of animal management to include enclosure design and advise on species selection. In addition to provide advice on collection planning at the zoo. I am experienced in strategic planning and co facilitated Action Plans for the Grand Cayman blue rock iguana and the Jamaican rock iguana. And participated in the recovery plan for the Mallorca midwife toad hosted in Jersey. Also my field experience would enable me to provide insight and advice on existing and future overseas field programs. Living on island provides me with an understanding of the sensitivities of Jersey. I can visit the zoo on a regular basis.

Personal statement

Ex Home Affairs Minister, Assistant Minister for the Environment and member or chair of 20 different boards and committees, Gregory helped deliver the Wildlife Law, Island Plan and Carbon Neutral Roadmap. A multinational businessman educated in France who worked in seven countries in domains as diverse as wine-making and online education, he decided to turn his hobby of wildlife photography into a career by attending the Durrell Summer School in 2004. He then worked closely with DWCT both at the Jersey Zoo and with their overseas projects to illustrate hundreds of publications for clients around the world. He also participated in conservation work in the Dominican Republic, Peru, Argentina and still does so in Jersey. Now enjoying his retirement from politics, Gregory is managing his companies and furthering his interests in science and ecology by helping Jersey Marine Conservation, the Jersey Bat Group and other organisations.

Personal statement

The issues we saw in the press in the last year were due to governance oversights and were compounded by not listening to employees and possibly, a lack of courage in the boardroom. When I was Durrell’s HR Director, 99% of the employees were the most knowledgeable and committed people I have worked with. They live the aim of Saving Species from Extinction and need a board that protects the trust so that work can continue. As a trustee with previous board experience, I would have the knowledge to ask difficult questions and offer support and guidance for improvements. Durrell needs conservation experts on the board and it also needs people who have board experience, a knowledge of legislation and also moral courage. My professional experience, my Masters in HR and Institute of Directors qualifications and standing up at the EGM in 2024 show that I have all of these.

Personal statement

I am accomplished in international diplomacy. I was appointed through the European Council as a full member of the European Economic and Social Committee, where I have taken multiple leadership roles over the last ten years, at EU and United National level. I am currently the CEO of Green Economy Foundation where I led a rebranding and strategic development initiative. I have project managed ambitious projects including the development of a Wildlife Park in the Caribbean, planting over 2 million trees in Ireland, collaborations with tree planting in Africa and an environmental education programme. I have considerable experience as a board member for a variety of companies. After graduating with an M.Sc. I worked at Durrell for over 5 years as a junior keeper and finishing as a Deputy Head of Department.

Personal statement

Dynamic Wildlife Biologist and Zoologist with a robust background in animal behaviour research, conservation efforts and academic instruction. Known for meticulous research methodologies, effective communication skills and a passion for wildlife conservation. Proficient in GIS software and statistical analysis, with a strong comment to advancing biological sciences and protecting wildlife habitats.

Personal statement

As a former Durrell CEO, I have direct experience and deep respect for the Trust and understand the unique position Durrell holds in Jersey and overseas. Currently, I hold non-executive positions in companies and charities, including as a Highlands College governor. In my executive career, I led companies in Europe, America and Asia and believe that a healthy culture is essential for an organisation to succeed. Key to this is honest, candid discussion and achieving results with appropriate behaviours. The future success of Durrell requires effective board oversight, with Trustees committed to open communication and who understand their responsibility and accountability to Durrell stakeholders – staff, members and supporters, visitors, partners and communities around the world and, critically, the animals in the care of the Trust. As a Trustee I will dedicate my experience to help guide Durrell so that it can again be a trusted, beacon of hope for wildlife.

Personal statement

Meeting Gerald Durrell and the baby gorilla Assumbo as a child has led to a lifelong relationship with Jersey and a huge passion for the Zoo. I’m a Chartered Accountant, with over 30 years’ experience at board level, as well as working extensively as a non-executive director, trustee and treasurer with many charities, both large and small. My expertise includes strategic reviews, corporate governance and forensic accounting. I was previously a Trustee of Durrell (2008-2014), chairing both Audit and Governance Committees, before becoming a Director of Durrell UK. Durrell needs to refocus on its core values, demonstrating transparency, integrity and accountability to the Members and other stakeholders, something I believe that the current Board has been unable to provide. Therefore, by voting for me, I’m giving you my personal commitment to offer my experience, judgement, time and professionalism, for the benefit of Durrell, to deliver real and lasting change.

Personal statement

A former zookeeper at Whipsnade and Edinburgh before joining Jersey Zoo in 1989. Left in 1996 to study wild orangutans in Sumatra for a PhD with DICE, University of Kent. In 2001 established the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme for the Swiss PanEco Foundation. The SOCP today employs >250 people in 10 different field projects, active in all aspects of orangutan conservation from confiscation and reintroduction to scientific research and habitat protection. It is the only project in the world creating new viable wild great ape populations. More recently established the groundbreaking Orangutan Haven. Leading the way in promoting welfare, conservation, education and sustainable development it is a model for zoos of the future. Ian has experience with 3 organisation boards and holds one honorary directorship. In 2017 he helped describe the new Tapanuli orangutan species to science and in 2020 was awarded an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II.

-While at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland for 15 yrs, he held various Director positions.

His responsibilities included running RZSS's two animal collections, the educational and ex & in situ research & conservation projects.

Iain's understanding of the zoo conservation world and interest in developing the capacity-building potential of zoos, has been built up over a forty-year period.  His passion for Durrell started, like many, as a boy, reading Gerald Durrell’s books but was firmly cemented after attending the Durrell Summer School, in 1988.

A Chartered Biologist, Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, Fellow of the Linnean Society of London,  member of the IUCN Conservation Planning Specialist Group and  an experienced Trustee and NED.

He has an established extensive network of professional individuals working in a variety of fields both nationally and internationally.

Friends and colleagues praise his dedication, professionalism and his ability in strategic and lateral thinking..

Personal statement

I’ve had the privilege of working 40 years at Durrell before retirement in 2023. Upholding the principles and legacy of Gerald Durrell by saving birds from extinction was always my priority. I worked in animal and conservation departments at Jersey Zoo and concurrently achieved an MSc and PhD, with Trust support. Durrell facilitated, financially and logistically, 30+ overseas field trips and visits to Trust field programmes in India, Madagascar, Mauritius, Comores, The Caribbean and Galápagos. I conceived and managed Durrell projects in Madagascar (including pochard rescue), Galápagos and Jersey (including chough reintroduction) personally raising £714,000 including three Darwin Initiative grants. I am globally recognised by my peers as an expert in bird conservation and am currently chair of the IUCN Threatened Waterfowl Specialist Group. I have now a vast network of contacts worldwide and am a respected figure in Jersey conservation. I am widely published in technical and popular publications.