What is your role?

My role has changed during my two years with the Trust, originally my job involved working with the information within the trust’s membership database to ensure a smooth transition to a new system. Last month my role was broadened to include helping with the wider aspects of our IT and telephony systems, and I’ll be providing support for forthcoming projects that support our work.

Did you have a career before conservation, if so what made you decide to change careers?

Before I joined the Trust, I had worked in computing for 25 years. A long illness allowed me to step back and think about what I really wanted from my work. A move to the west coast of Scotland followed, and regular sightings of animals like deer, red squirrels and pine martens re-ignited my interest in wildlife and nature. On returning to England I saw the database post advertised by Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and I immediately applied as this was a perfect opportunity to use my IT and technical skills in a way that benefits wildlife.

What advice would you give to others who may be currently thinking about making a career change to the conservation industry?

Do it! At a time when nature needs us all more than ever, there are all kinds of career opportunities that can really help you make a difference. You’ll be working with caring and energised people who all share a common interest.

What is it about your job that you enjoy the most?

Quite simply, my colleagues are the best. Everyone works towards creating a supportive workplace where you feel valued and that you’re making a difference.  Also, my office is on a nature reserve so there’s always something interesting to see!

Where is your favourite spot/wild space in Lincolnshire?

I live in Boston, a busy town with lots of noisy traffic. Even there, together with my wife Ele, I have enjoyed creating our own wild space in our garden, where we were rewarded with the appearance of bee orchids last summer. I also enjoy exploring the various green spaces around the town, and walking to the end of the river you reach a beautiful spot sandwiched between the well-known birding spots of Freiston Shore and Frampton Marsh, just a few miles from the town centre but seemingly far from anywhere and with a remote bird hide where you can be alone with your thoughts (and a few seals splashing at the river mouth).