Professor Clare Fitzsimmons
Biography
Clare Fitzsimmons is Professor of Marine Ecosystems and Governance at Newcastle University. With commercial experience gained in defence and consultancy sectors, she is Director of Business, Innovation and Skills in the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, chairs the External Advisory Board and is a Marine Management Organisation-appointed member of the North Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority.
Her research has two main aims: developing a strategic understanding of marine ecosystems governance and management at multiple-scales, from global to local, and providing evidence in support of conservation-based management of marine habitats, species and biodiversity. Her teaching introduces students to spatial analyses and remote sensing methods, to help them explore ecology and conservation issues at scale, and supports solutions for the sustainable exploitation of the marine environment.
She is co-chair of Natural England’s Science Advisory Committee (NESAC) where this experience supports multi-disciplinary experts to ensure the best available scientific advice is used to underpin decision-making for nature recovery.
Non-executive board member
Non-executive board members of Natural England have collective responsibility for the strategic direction and overall performance of the organisation. They make sure that Natural England is properly and effectively managed and provide stewardship for the public funds entrusted to the organisation.