An environmental charity based in Oxfordshire has announced the appointment of a new chief executive.
Ian Barrett will take on the role at Earth Trust on December 2, bringing "extensive experience" in nature conservation, community engagement, influencing, and partnership.
The charity, based in Little Wittenham near Abingdon, said Mr Barrett joins at a 'critical juncture', as the organisation advances its mission to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and public health challenges through innovative green space management and community empowerment.
"I'm thrilled to be joining Earth Trust," said Mr Barrett.
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"This organization has a deep understanding of the potential for people and places to take positive action for our climate, wildlife, health, and wellbeing.
"Earth Trust has exciting plans to demonstrate the power of nature, engage more people, and influence for a world where nature and people can thrive together."
Mr Barrett's appointment comes as Earth Trust embarks on its 'ambitious' Gateway project, a £10 million initiative to transform the Earth Trust Centre into an innovative hub for learning and discovery.
This development is central to the charity's strategy of putting people at the heart of environmental change.
Frank Nigriello and Sarah Hendry, co-chairs of Earth Trust board of trustees, said: "We are delighted to welcome Ian to Earth Trust.
"We are confident that under Ian's leadership, Earth Trust will continue to innovate and inspire, transforming people's relationship with the natural world. "
Mr Barrett brings a wealth of experience to the role, including eight years as CEO of Avon Wildlife Trust, where he led pioneering work on biodiversity net gain and community empowerment.
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His background also includes leadership roles at Sustrans and in the civil service, as well as chairing the West of England Nature Partnership, where he has spearheaded pioneering work on Nature Recovery Networks, showcasing his commitment to landscape-scale conservation and collaborative approaches to environmental challenges.
Liz Buckle and Clare Fairbrother, interim co-CEOs of Earth Trust, added: "Ian joins us at an exciting time as we work to become leading-edge exemplars of managing accessible, engaging green spaces of different scales.
"Ian is joining a passionate and dedicated team of staff, trustees and volunteers, and his experience will be crucial in helping us demonstrate nature-based solutions, ensure everyone has access to quality green spaces, and make our voice heard in influencing policy and practice."
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