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Monday 7 March 2011

Wildscreen charity appoints new Chief Executive

Bristol based conservation charity Wildscreen has appointed Richard Edwards as its new Chief Executive after an extensive recruitment process.

Edwards, who currently holds the position of ARKive Director for the charity, will take up the post with immediate effect. A graduate of Oxford University and University College London, Edwards has been with Wildscreen for over 10 years and brings a wealth of experience and skills to the role.

Chair to the Wildscreen Board of Trustees, Dick Emery OBE, who made the announcement said: “Richard’s appointment marks an exciting chapter for Wildscreen, as it looks to expand its global influence. Engaging with, and inspiring, new audiences about the wonders of the natural world is a key priority, and one that the Chief Executive role is integral to.

“Richard has built strong professional relationships with some of the most eminent names in natural history media production, conservation biology and academia, a testament to the exceptional skills being brought to the table and key to the reputation Wildscreen holds within these sectors.”

“Wildscreen has great ambitions for the coming years and needs a strong driving force to take forward its strategic aims; myself and the Board of Trustees are confident Richard can deliver.”

The Wildscreen charity, which employs 40 staff covering a range of specialist disciplines, sits at the heart of the international natural history media industry. It works globally to promote an appreciation of biodiversity and nature through the power of wildlife imagery – which it is able to do through strong relationships with the world’s very best wildlife and environmental filmmakers and photographers.

In his new role, Edwards will be responsible for the creation and implementation of a long-term development strategy for the charity, securing alliances with external partners, and ensuring continued financial security for the organisation.

As the charity looks to further raise its profile, and that of its five flagship initiatives, both in the UK and abroad, Edwards will also be expected to demonstrate exceptional leadership skills and astuteness for business opportunities and development.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard Edwards said: “I’m delighted to be appointed and look forward to the challenges ahead.

“Wildscreen has a clear role to play in the global conservation effort. I strongly believe that wildlife films and photos are one of the most powerful, emotive and effective tools for raising global environmental awareness, igniting that spark of interest in the natural world, and reconnecting people with nature – all vital elements in the battle to save our endangered species and habitats.

“I want to ensure Wildscreen sits at the top of the conservation communication sector. As part of this, I will be looking towards working with our partners and building strategic alliances to optimise user experiences and deliver innovative solutions to communicate our message.”

Edwards replaces Harriet Nimmo, who stepped down as Chief Executive in January after 13 years with the charity. Nimmo, who was at the Wildscreen helm for seven years, has relocated to South Africa in order to undertake a new career opportunity. However she remains closely involved with the charity at high level, taking the advisory role of Wildscreen Strategic Director.

Ends

Contact: Helen Shrimpton, Communications & Marketing Manager
Telephone: 0117 328 5952
Email: helen.shrimpton@wildscreen.org.uk

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