Candidate info
Particular qualifications:
As the Founder and Executive Director of the International NGO, Cheetah Conservation Fund, since 1990, and 11 affiliates, I understand fiduciary responsibility of running Boards. Since 1994, I have worked in conservation and have developed a world-class research, education, and conservation institution in two countries. I am very committed to equality, justice and sustainable development, including gender equality and regional diversity and direct a staff of over 160 employees globally. I have been a member of the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group since 1988, serving as co-chair from 1995 to 2001, a member of the CBSG from 1991 to 1997, and an institutional member of IUCN in 2016. I have a global view of the IUCN vision and have the ability to contribute to its direction and priorities. As one of the global scientific experts in my field of predator research, conservation and mitigation, I have been recognized with over 30 prestigious awards. I work throughout Africa, as well as internationally on conservation initiatives providing me the capacity to guiding development of the Unions’ policies between sessions with competencies in several key areas of its development, and providing oversight. I have a good understanding of the Unions’ statutes. I will serve in a private capacity for the Union respecting conflict of interest. I am able to communicate effectively and have the capacity to devote the time necessary to the regional duties throughout the year.
Experience in fields of concern to IUCN:
I have been on the IUCN Species Survival Commission in two specialist groups since 1988, co-charing one of the groups, the Cat Specialist Group. I have developed Educational initiates since 1980 in four countries and have developed and participated in community based natural resource management in two African countries. I have developed the organization I founded based on the principals of Species Survival, Education, Sustainability, Community Based Natural Resource Management, Livelihood Development, and Habitat restoration. I have extensive expertise in these areas.