MDE Profiles: Sarah Wren

Personal Profile

I’m a Divemaster and avid free diver, and will bring my wetsuit and fins with me wherever I can. I've swam with more than 15 different species of shark and want to tick many more off my bucket list! I enjoy hiking in the UK and wild swimming, as well as the odd festival.

Favourite marine creature: Hammerhead shark / Humpback whale – I’m a softie for marine megafauna

Career Profile

I have a background in marine research and monitoring projects across an array of species and habitats and I completed an MSc in Marine Biology and a BSc in Zoology.

LinkedIn Profile: Sarah Wren

Responsibilities:

I manage the delivery of cross-sectoral primary marine research and evidence generation, contributing to informed decisionmaking and data-driven insights. I regularly collaborate with academic and research partners to enhance the depth and breadth of evidence available for Marine activities, overseeing the collection, analysis, and reporting of marine evidence.

Why did you choose this career?: Like many others, I’m passionate and devoted to protecting and enhancing the marine environment. I’m fascinated by marine creatures and how organisms within ecosystems interact with one another as well as sustainable initiatives. I couldn’t see myself placed in any other industry.

What do you love about your job?: Working with like-minded individuals that have similar passions and goals to protect and preserve the marine environment, whilst supporting sustainable development. I enjoy leading and supporting on various environmentally focused projects such as habitat restoration, natural capital initiatives and offshore wind development. One of the best parts of my job is collaborating with others within the marine space on projects that will really make a difference.

What do you find challenging about your work?: There are many initiatives and research ideas that deserve our attention, however deciding which evidence projects are a priority can prove challenging.

Skills:

• Research management
• Marine evidence collection
• Data and insights
• Stakeholder engagement
• Collaboration
• People management
• Marine monitoring methods

Career Pathway:

I previously held a position at Natural England where I worked as a Marine Evidence Lead Advisor. Here, I took part in research, analytics, and conservation advice programmes. I have a strong background in delivering evidence projects, with a particular focus on supporting marine Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessments.

I have had previous roles in marine research which has taken me across the globe to places like Hawaii, studying the behavioural ecology of pelagic sharks and have dipped my toes into digital communications and marketing through working at Discovery Inc. I completed a Masters in Marine Biology from the University College Cork, where I also gained my VHF Radio and Captains Licence, so yes... I can drive boats!

I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredible people and organisations throughout my early career where I have been able to help prioritise the marine environment and it’s incredible living creatures. I look forward to learning all about my new role at the Crown Estate whilst bringing positive change through sustainable initiatives.

Advise to someone looking to move into the marine sector: Get involved! Study, work hard and network. Exposing yourself to the different sectors within the marine space is the best way to find out where your skills and passions align. Speak to as many people as you can within the sector and make meaningful connections (and don’t be afraid to ask questions).