Conservation Expert Joins Manx National Heritage

Manx National Heritage (MNH) has strengthened its commitment to protecting the island’s natural environment with the appointment of a new Environmental Development and Engagement Manager.

The charity has appointed conservation specialist Richard Seed to the newly created role, which will focus on expanding environmental projects, increasing volunteering opportunities and deepening public engagement across Manx National Trust lands.

MNH is responsible for more than 2,500 acres of the island’s landscape, including coastlines, heathlands, wetlands and internationally important nature reserves.

The organisation says the new post will play a key role in enhancing stewardship of these areas while encouraging more people to connect with the island’s natural heritage.

The role will support conservation work across key Trustland sites such as the Calf of Man Bird Observatory and the Curraghs RAMSAR site.

It will also involve delivering practical habitat restoration projects, developing volunteer programmes, and supporting the delivery of MNH’s Climate Change Strategy alongside environmental monitoring and reporting.

Richard brings extensive experience in environmental conservation and public engagement, having previously worked with the National Trust (England), Manx BirdLife and New Zealand’s Department of Conservation.

His background includes leading projects focused on biodiversity management, habitat protection and building stronger links between communities and the natural environment.

Welcoming his appointment, Steve Blackford, Head of Properties at Manx National Heritage, said Richard’s experience made him an ideal fit for the organisation’s ambitions.

‘Richard’s experience across leading conservation organisations, both locally and internationally, makes him an excellent fit for this role,’ he said.

‘His passion for the natural environment and his ability to connect people with the places we care for will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the stewardship of Manx National Trust lands and create more opportunities for people to get involved in protecting the island’s natural heritage.’

Richard said he was looking forward to working with colleagues, volunteers and partners to build on existing conservation efforts across the island.

‘I’m delighted to be joining Manx National Heritage and helping to care for some of the Island’s most special natural places,’ he said.

‘There is huge potential to expand volunteering, strengthen public engagement and deliver practical environmental improvements that will benefit both wildlife and communities. I’m looking forward to working with colleagues, partners, volunteers and supporters to help protect and enhance these landscapes for future generations.’