James has over 10 years’ experience in the environment sector, spanning government and not-for-profit organisations across Australia. James has been an integral part of the TLC for over five years – commencing as an ecologist before becoming the Philanthropy and Engagement Manager in 2015.
James has expressed his sincere gratitude and excitement at being appointed the TLC’s third CEO.
“I’m humbled and honoured to become the TLC’s next CEO. I am incredibly excited and energised to continue this great organisation’s critical efforts in protecting nature for generations to come,” he said.
James will take over from Jane Hutchinson, who has led the TLC with both passion and ambition for seven years. Under Jane’s leadership the TLC has developed an innovative business model, protected over 9,700 hectares of critical habitat for vulnerable plants and wildlife, and become an exemplarily choice for supporters wanting to see meaningful outcomes from their contributions to conservation projects.
Highlights from Jane’s time as CEO include partnering with the Tasmanian Aboriginal community to protect trawtha makuminya – a near-pristine landscape in central Tasmania that plays a vital role in reconnecting the Aboriginal community with Country. In 2016 Jane received the Tasmanian of the Year award.
“It has been an absolute privilege to have worked with so many incredible people to have achieved such important and tangible results for nature conservation. I’m truly excited about the future for the TLC and I’ve no doubt that outstanding outcomes will continue to be achieved under its new leadership,” she said.
TLC chairman Stuart Barry commended James on his appointment as the TLC’s new CEO after a thorough national search for a new leader of the organisation was conducted.
“The TLC’s board oversaw the recruitment process, which received applicants from across Australia. I congratulate James on this amazing achievement,” he said.
The TLC was established in 2001 with $50 in the bank and a handful of committed volunteers. Since then, it has grown to be one of Tasmania’s largest private landholders.
Under James’s leadership the TLC will continue to look after Tasmania’s unique natural places, rare ecosystems and habitat for threatened plants and wildlife on private land and help Tasmania to become a global leader in nature conservation.