I am writing today to let you know that after 12 years at the Tasmanian Land Conservancy (TLC), and more than six years as CEO, I have decided that it is time for me to say farewell. For those who know me well, you will know this is a hard thing for me to do, but I know the time is right for me and the organisation.
The TLC has been my rock for so long. From the land we work to protect and the programs we deliver to the team I am privileged to work alongside and the community that underpins it all – TLC has given me so much. My time here has been my life’s most enriching, fulfilling experience, and I will carry that with me for the rest of my life.
Belonging to this dedicated team of conservationists has shaped me into who I am today. Exploring this beautiful state and getting to know the communities so committed to caring for it has brought me enormous personal and professional satisfaction. I want to thank everyone I have shared this with.
I would also like to thank all of you, our community of supporters – you are fundamental to everything we do. It’s people like you who make Tasmania so unique, working to protect it every day in whatever way you can. Whether you are a landholder, volunteer, donor, or someone who has helped spread the word, you have actively contributed to conservation outcomes across this incredible state. Our work wouldn’t be possible without you.
While this has been a hard decision for me, I am so excited about TLC’s future. Effective leadership renewal and succession have always been a foundational element of the organisation’s success and momentum, and as TLC moves to its fourth CEO, the Board and I are deeply committed to a smooth and effective transition. We are focused on the recruitment process and have engaged an external executive recruitment firm to ensure we attract the best possible candidates for the role.
I have committed to remaining at TLC until the new CEO is appointed, so that we can facilitate a transition period. Rest assured, I’m still committed to the cause and will do my best to support the incoming CEO for the first few months, likely in early 2025.
I would also like to emphasise that our team will remain focused on our work to conserve Tassie’s unique landscapes throughout this process.
I will remain a steadfast supporter of TLC, as a monthly donor and Natural Guardian and continue to advocate for the importance of community-led conservation. I encourage you all to keep going, keep doing, keep working, keep inspiring and keep at it because it makes a difference every day.
If you have any questions, please contact news@tasland.org.au, and I will do my best to get back to you.
With sincere gratitude, respect and personal sadness.
James Hattam
Chief Executive Officer
From the TLC Board
On behalf of the TLC board, we would like to thank James for 12 years of extraordinary contributions to our organisation, outstanding leadership and his unwavering commitment to conserving nature in Tasmania. We wish him the very best for his future plans.
We are grateful that James has committed to a smooth transition by remaining at TLC until the new CEO commences, likely in early 2025. In time there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate James’ contributions to our community, and we look forward to hosting an event once the transition is complete.
While we are saddened to see James go, the Board is looking forward to, and focused on the recruitment process. We have committed to implementing a best-practice succession plan and believe we are well placed to attract the best possible CEO to lead TLC into the future.
Kind regards,
Julian von Bibra – Board Chair, and Clare Bower – Board Vice Chair