On the 28th June 2024, Wildcare team members Jennifer, Jack and Rosie attend the CIEEM Awards, held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Tower Bridge in London. As an organisation, the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) is a leading professional body representing and supporting ecologists and environmental managers. CIEEM provides a range of services including professional development, networking opportunities, guidelines for best practices, and accreditation for individuals and organisations. The institute also works to promote the highest standards in the practice of ecology and environmental management and to influence policy and practice to benefit both the environment and society.
The CIEEM awards are a celebration of their members, and other achievements within the sector. This prestigious event embodies our values and mission here at Wildcare – to support ecologists and wildlife enthusiasts so they in turn can support our environment and ecosystems. We’re always growing and evolving, and support of these landmark events allows us to continue to work within the community of industry leaders and connects us with ecologists. We are proud to have sponsored both the Member of the Year and Promising Professional categories for the 4th year in a row.
After a wonderful fully vegan and gluten-free luncheon, the awards ceremony was hosted by Will Woodrow and awards presented by Richard Handley, the president of CIEEM.
Promising Professional
The Promising Professional Award is available to any member, graduate, qualifying or Associate, in the early stages of their career. The winner achieved this award by demonstrating above average competence and a strong commitment towards development, evidenced by achievements, knowledge, skills, leadership, passion and commitment, and inspiration for others, in the field of ecology and environmental management. The award had 14 nominations and had five finalists:
- Laura Whitehead, AtkinsRèalis - Laura's exceptional communication skills and attention to detail have made her an invaluable member of the team. She excels in project management, seeking mentorship to enhance her skills and successfully co-ordinating multiple high-profile projects.
- Shah Nawaz Jelil, Arcadis - Shah brings extensive knowledge from academia and field-based conservation projects in India. His core skills involve ecological data collection and analysis, spatial and statistical modelling, technical writing and effective communication with stakeholders.
- Stephanie Bradbeer, Yorkshire Water - Steph is highly regarded for her expertise in invasion science which is evidenced by her academic achievements and publications. At Yorkshire Water she excels in regulatory projects related to biosecurity and invasive, non-native species.
- William Haigh, Mott MacDonald - Despite only working in consultancy for 2 years , Will demonstrates excellency in his ecological consultant role. He's the survey lead for invertebrates and is a competent botanist, and consistently deliver high-quality reporting and advice.
- Dafydd James, Arcadis - Dafydd is a highly skilled ecologist with experience in herpetology and raptors so excels in reptile, amphibian and bird surveys. He consistently exceeds expectations, leading large-scale infrastructure projects and client development.
Congratulations both William Hague and Stephanie Bradbeer for winning the award!
The judges said it was an incredibly hard category to judge. The quality of entries was extremely high and all of the finalist could have been winners. It's good to know the profession is in safe hands. They found it impossible to choose only one winner, so we have two!
Member of the Year
This award recognises the consistently high commitment and achievement of a CIEEM member in their work to protect and enhance nature, support and help others in the profession and/ or contribute to the
success of CIEEM. The four finalists were:
- Luke Gorman, AtkinsRèalis - Luke has devoted his life to protecting and enhancing biodiversity and he has encouraged, enthused, and empowered many others to do the same. He frequently works on innovative ecological survey methods, working in partnerships with other organisations, for example the use of survey dogs and AI software for analysing bioacoustics.
- Mike Trewby, Woodrow Environmental Consultants - Has made significant contributions to protecting biodiveristy, including fieldwork in Namibia and research at universities in the UK and New Zealand. His work has been published in prestigious journals, showcasing his expertise in ornithology. Mike remains modest, approachable and always ready to share his knowledge.
- Tom Buttterworth, Arup - Tom has over 27 years’ experience working for wildlife in academia, civil society, government, and consultancy. Tom is best known for his leadership in implementation of biodiversity net gain. He was instrumental in driving forward BNGs early development and has shown commitment to ensuring the tools and matrices are encompassed within England's legal framework and are practical to apply by end users, as well as being scientifically robust.
- Laura Holmes, Tetra Tech - In her role as national bat lead, Laura regularly works on complex large-scale projects across the UK using non-standard, innovative but repeatable methods. She regularly champions advances in technology such as thermal imaging and promotes technical excellence through training and projects with her colleagues.
Congratulations to Tom Butterworth for winning the award!
The judges said that Tom's commitment to biodiversity extends to his involvement in technical advisory roles and leadership positions in organisations like the UK Business and Biodiversity Forum. His vast experience, technical expertise and passion for biodiversity and conservation, together with his leadership and advocacy have significantly contributed towards advancing ecology and environmental management practices across the profession.
Thanks to CIEEM for hosting the event, and continuing to promote excellence in the ecological sector. You can find the full list of awards, with the shortlist and winners on their website here.
We look forward to attending again next year!
