I am Head of Forest Planning for Forestry England, which is the government department responsible for management of the nation’s forests. My role includes providing leadership and strategic oversight on all aspects of forest planning, sustainability certification, forest resilience and natural capital across the nation's forests.
I have a research background, with a PhD from the University of Cambridge exploring natural capital optimisation in UK forestry. I am still actively engaged in research, through multiple ongoing collaborations with universities and research organisations, and as an Academic Visitor to Cambridge’s Conservation Science Group. I am also a member of the UK government’s Expert Committee on Forest Science. My research interests include adaptation of forests to future environmental and social conditions, ecological functioning and integrity, and how to balance multi-purpose land use. I am particularly engaged in co-design of research and the translation of scientific insights to practical decision-making, which is crucial, though often neglected.
I am a Chartered Forester and Trustee of the Sylva Foundation, a national charity that focuses on the stewardship of forests and utility of timber.
