Introducing a new generation of conservation leaders: Julie Griffin

"I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy at Duke University in the US. I have worked for the past 4.5 years at IUCN’s headquarters in the Species Programme. I focussed on communications, project coordination and was most recently Network Support Officer for the Species Survival Commission (SSC), helping with the work of the SSC’s Specialist Groups. My work has involved IUCN Red List workshops, CBD policy work, communications, fundraising, and facilitating international meetings. I have been closely involved in the work of SSC’s Marine Committee and much of my work has focussed on IUCN’s policy input to the CBD Global Strategy for Plant Conservation.

I am especially interested in learning more about priority setting and how local dialogue and participation contributes to long-term conservation outcomes. Through the MPhil in Conservation Leadership, I aim to broaden my career focus from supporting policy-focused species work to leading other facets of conservation, particularly in the field.

Beyond work and studies, I try to get outside as much as possible, to hike, rock climb, back-country ski, and scuba dive. It may come as no surprise that I am most passionate about conservation issues facing mountain and coastal areas and communities."