An update from Kate

In this episode Kate chats to Dr Paul Leinster. Paul was Chief Executive of the Environment Agency from 2008 to 2015 where he famously developed the concept of better environmental regulation, which has been recognised within government and internationally as leading edge. Prior to that Paul worked in the private sector for over 20 years. He was awarded a CBE in 2008 and is a chartered chemist and a chartered environmentalist.

Since retiring in 2015 it appears he has been busier than ever, working as Professor of Environmental Assessment for Cranfield University as well as acting as a Non-Executive Director, Chair and Board member for numerous worthy causes all linked to protecting and enhancing the environment, which he is clearly passionate about. To connect with Paul, email him at: paul@pierconsultants.co.uk

In this episode Kate chats to an ex-colleague, Mark Funnell. Mark is Communications and Campaigns Director at the National Trust, looking after external communications, internal communications, policy and advocacy and content and publishing.

He has specialised in environmental communications and campaigns for over 20 years. His previous roles include interim Director of Communications at Defra, Head of Communications at the Forestry Commission and Head of External Relations at the Environment Agency.

He also led transformation to a new operating model for Defra group’s 250 Communications staff, who came together from five different arm’s length bodies.

Mark started out in editorial and publishing roles, working for five years at a consumer magazine publishing company. His specialist areas include environmental campaigns, corporate communications, operational and crisis communications, change management, staff engagement, stakeholder relations and public affairs.

You can connect with him on Linkedin