The Conservation Council of WA (CCWA) announced today that Matt Roberts has been appointed to the role of Executive Director.
CCWA President Richard Yin said Mr Roberts, who began today, “impressed us with his diverse experience across government, politics and education institutions, with a strong alignment to CCWAs conservation values”.
“Matt brings a diverse background, including Executive experience at Department of Communities, teaching at the University of WA, leadership roles with The Australian Greens and a strong focus on building consensus,” Mr Yin said.
“He has also held high-level government roles at Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) and the Department of Communities, giving him a good understanding of policy development, a critical part of the work we do at CCWA.
“Matt has overseen electoral campaigns and understands advocacy within a political context, so we believe he will continue to build on the strong foundations laid by former Executive Director Jess Beckerling, and Campaigns Director Mia Pepper who has been acting in the role.”
Mr Roberts said he was glad to be joining CCWA at such a critical juncture, as the state faces mounting environmental challenges with major coral bleaching, increasing pressures on threatened species from clearing and climate change, dwindling water resources, and major drying events.
“CCWA has three really critical programs addressing threats to nature, phasing out fossil fuels and advocating for fair and fast clean energy transitions,” Mr Roberts said.
“I have long admired CCWA’s commitment to safeguarding Western Australia’s unique biodiversity and precious ecosystems.
“The opportunity to lead an organisation that unites diverse member bodies, drives policy innovation, and mobilises public support, aligns perfectly with my passion and experience.”
ENDS