Earth Trust Welcomes Ian Barrett as New Chief Executive

A Visionary Leader for Earth Trust’s Future

Ian joins Earth Trust at a pivotal moment in our 40-year history. As we face the triple threat of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and a massive public health crisis, our mission has never been more critical.

Central to our strategy is putting people at the heart of change. By showcasing nature-based solutions that benefit both biodiversity and people, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of our ecosystem and inspire a wider community of changemakers to take action for our planet.

As we move forward with our plans to transform the Earth Trust centre into an innovative, inclusive hub for learning and discovery, Ian’s leadership will be crucial in driving both our £10 million Gateway development project and our broader ambitious vision. Through this transformation, alongside our wider work, we will inspire and empower communities to address environmental crises through the power of natural green spaces.

Ian says, “I’m thrilled to be joining Earth Trust. This is an organisation with a deep understanding of the potential for people and places to take positive action for our climate, wildlife, health and wellbeing. Earth Trust has such exciting plans to demonstrate the power of nature, engage more people and influence for a world where nature and people can thrive together. I can’t wait to get started.”

“I am passionate about creating better places for people and wildlife, tackling the challenges of the nature and climate emergencies and improving people’s quality of life through placemaking and access to greenspace. Earth Trust’s mission aligns perfectly with these goals, and I’m excited to lead the organization in making a real difference.”

A Wealth of Experience

Ian comes to Earth Trust after 8 years with Avon Wildlife Trust (AWT), where he led pioneering work on biodiversity net gain, implemented new approaches to community empowerment, and significantly grew the Trust’s nature recovery work with farmers and landowners.

Ian’s extensive background in environmental leadership spans various sectors. He led Avon Wildlife Trust through a period of significant growth and innovation, demonstrating his ability to drive positive change in conservation organisations. As England South Director at Sustrans, he oversaw community-led design projects, honing his skills in sustainable transport and urban planning. Ian’s experience also includes working as a civil servant, where he tackled a wide range of environmental policy areas, giving him valuable insights into governmental processes. Most recently, as Chair of the West of England Nature Partnership, Ian has spearheaded pioneering work on Nature Recovery Networks, showcasing his commitment to landscape-scale conservation and collaborative approaches to environmental challenges.

A Shared Vision for People and Nature

Ian’s approach aligns perfectly with Earth Trust’s vision of a society where accessible, inspiring green spaces enable nature and people to thrive in balance. His experience in partnership working, community engagement, and policy influencing will be invaluable as we continue to inspire people to address the crises of climate, biodiversity, and health through the power of natural green spaces.

Frank Nigriello and Sarah Hendry, co-chairs of Earth Trust Board of Trustees said: “We are delighted to welcome Ian to Earth Trust. His proven track record in environmental leadership and fostering community connections makes him the ideal person to lead our organisation as we scale up our impact. We are very excited about Ian’s appointment and confident that under Ian’s leadership, Earth Trust will continue to innovate and inspire, transforming people’s relationship with the natural world.”

Liz Buckle and Clare Fairbrother interim co-CEO’s of Earth Trust, added: “Ian joins us at an exciting time as we work to become leading-edge exemplars of managing accessible, engaging green spaces of different scales. His experience will be crucial in helping us demonstrate nature-based solutions, ensure everyone has access to quality green spaces, and make our voice heard in influencing policy and practice. Ian is joining a passionate and dedicated team of staff, trustees and volunteers and we look forward to a bright future where Earth Trust is able to connect more people, in more ways, with the natural world.”

Join Us in This Exciting New Chapter

Ian will begin his role at Earth Trust on 2 December. We’re excited to work with Ian to inspire more people, demonstrate nature-based solutions, and create a lasting impact for our community and environment.

Stay tuned for opportunities to meet Ian and learn more about his vision for Earth Trust’s future in the coming months.

Welcome to Earth Trust, Ian!

You, our Earth Trust community, are at the heart of everything we do. Together with Ian’s leadership, we’ll continue to make a difference, driving change and creating a world where nature and people thrive in balance.