Wildlife adviser appoints its Apprentice as new Managing Director

The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), with offices in Peterborough, Aberdeen, Brussels and the Falklands, today announced the appointment of its new Managing Director.

Marcus Yeo, 44, will succeed Deryck Steer in September, who will be retiring following over eleven years service, as the head of the organisation that advises both the UK and devolved governments on nature conservation issues.

Peter Bridgewater, Chair of JNCC, noted of Marcus: “He has performed well as our Director of Policy and Resources for the last five years, a role which has brought him into contact with most of our stakeholders. In that way he has undoubtedly helped in improving the standing we have with organisations we work with on a daily basis. He is fully committed to managing the process of change and evolution set in motion by our Committee, and I know from experience that he will be proactive towards forthcoming changes in the economic and political situation, both at home and globally.”

Marcus Yeo, commenting on his appointment, said: “JNCC is at a crucial point in its development, with the general public realising that the well-being of nature and our environment is the foundation to life on Earth.  Our data and research provide the tools for decision makers, so that they can understand cause and effect on flora and fauna.  Nature conservation faces major challenges over the next few years, both within the UK and internationally, and I aim to ensure that JNCC plays a full part in meeting these challenges.”

Marcus was previously JNCC’s Head of Planning and Resources, and prior to that Head of Habitat Advice.  Marcus spent nine years with the Countryside Council for Wales, first as a Vegetation Surveyor, before becoming their Upland Ecologist from 1993 to 1999. He has a personal interest in nature conservation, in particular bryophytes, being an active member of the British Bryological Society.  He is also a keen cyclist.

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Notes for editors

1. The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) is the statutory adviser to Government on UK and international nature conservation, on behalf of the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside, the Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage. Its work contributes to maintaining and enriching biological diversity, conserving geological features and sustaining natural systems.
2. Images of Marcus Yeo, and the opportunity for an interview, are available through , JNCC. Tel: 01733 866839