A new chapter is about to begin at Cambrian Wildwood as we bid farewell to our current Project Director, Simon Ayres at the end of the year.
Simon has worked tirelessly to establish the project and develop it into a thriving venture that benefits both nature and people. In his words, “It’s been an exhilarating time with Coetir Anian, to be part of the project as it has grown from an idea to a reality. Highlights are seeing the habitats improve with the grazing of the horses and cattle. Also, watching the beautiful shed and compost loo taking shape. And especially seeing the groups of kids and teenagers and adults getting so much out of spending time in this wonderful place. It’s a real privilege to work with my talented colleagues and I am planning to stay involved as a volunteer. I look forward to handing over the Director role to a new person who can bring fresh ideas and energy to the project.”
Simon Ayres
Outgoing Project Director
As staff and trustees, we are extremely grateful for all the hard work and energy that Simon has given the project and wish him well in his future adventures.
Simon’s shoes are certainly big ones to fill but we are pleased to announce the appointment of Katy Harris to the role of Project Director. Katy has an interesting and varied background including time spent living and working for environmental NGOs in eastern Russia, working on conservation of old-growth boreal forests. She has worked for environmental charities in Wales for almost 20 years, including roles at the Centre for Alternative Technology, with Coed Lleol – Small Woods, and more recently the RSPB. Katy has a wealth of experience in project development and management as well as fundraising.
Her strong interest in nature conservation, habitat restoration, enabling society to respond to the climate and biodiversity emergency, and in linking people and communities with nature are a perfect fit for Cambrian Wildwood.
Not only do we have a new director, we’ve also been fortunate to appoint Deborah Joffe as our part time Fundraising Manager. Deb is a successful, proactive fundraiser and relationship manager with a strong interest in the environmental sector. She has worked and volunteered in the charity sector for fifteen years in a wide range of roles, including as a Grants and Trusts Coordinator, Philanthropy Officer and Fundraising and Development Manager. We are sure that her wealth of experience will be invaluable to Cambrian Wildwood.
Katy Harris
New Project Director
Deb Joffe
Fundraising Manager
Ah Simon! Sad to hear your leaving. Your all doing such a good job there 🙂 Well done 👍
Joy