Guernsey Nature Commission appoints new chair, expands board, and launches search for a chief executive

After a recruitment campaign which saw nearly 50 people put their names forward for consideration, the recently launched Guernsey Nature Commission LBG ('the Commission' has appointed a new chair, Martin Belcher, and five new directors.

The Commission is also pleased to confirm that Lt-Governor Lt General Richard Cripwell has accepted its invitation to become Patron.

As chair of the Polygon Collective, Mr Belcher is well-known within the business community in Guernsey.  The Polygon Collective is a carbon neutral organisation and has the largest fleet of micro electric cars in Guernsey.  It also supports various philanthropic ventures, the latest being the library in the Art for Guernsey Gallery.  He has long been associated with Guernsey rugby, serving as chair of the Guernsey Rugby Association and President of the Guernsey Rugby Club. Mr Belcher brings to the Commission a lifelong passion for the environment.

Joining Mr Belcher and Commission co-founder Fiona Bateson on the board are Advocate Wayne Atkinson, Dr Amy Hall, Steve Langlois, Paul Le Poidevin and Laura McKerrell.

Jim Robinson (Director of Nature with the States of Guernsey) and Jim Roberts (Chief Executive of the Guernsey Community Foundation) will attend board meetings as observers.

Mr Belcher, who is keen for the Commission to turn its attention to biodiversity net gain and to promote more regenerative farming and rewilding, said: “We are fortunate to have appointed an extremely strong board, with directors who bring a wealth of diverse experiences from a wide range of specialisms. It’s now time to plan for our first year of activity and to recruit an executive team who, under the board’s direction, will help drive the Commission forward.”

Fiona Bateson said: “We were pleasantly surprised by the level of interest shown by so many experienced and knowledgeable individuals.  We have recruited a well-balanced, knowledgeable board who are all passionate about enhancing the island’s natural environment and promoting greater biodiversity.