Meet our new Marine Evidence Manager, Sarah!
My name is Sarah and I'm fascinated by the natural world, particularly the marine environment.
From a young age, I've been captivated by nature, inspired by environmental causes and enthused by green initiatives. As a 16 year old school student, I interned at SeaLife London Aquarium where my passion and interest in our oceans continued to grow.
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 (Glastonbury 2023 anyone?). I’m currently based in Battersea and can be regularly seen taking walks around the park/common whatever the weather, admiring all the dogs in South West London.
I love spending quality time with friends and family and enjoy checking out the latest exhibition the Natural History Museum has to offer, with the 'Wildlife Photographer of the Year' being my staple favourite.
Career: I have recently joined the Crown Estate as a Marine Evidence Manager and am eager to get stuck in developing new evidence projects whilst tapping into our own data holdings (such as the MDE), answering pertinent research questions and driving positive change across the seabed. Before joining TCE, 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.
Favourite marine creature: Hammerhead shark / Humpback whale – I’m a softie for marine megafauna
Favourite hobbies: Travelling, dog sitting, cooking, netball
Party trick: Not sure if this counts but I can name all the countries in the world (with the help of the classic Animaniacs song)
