Earthwatch Europe Welcomes New Chief Executive

20th November 2024

Earthwatch Europe is delighted to announce the appointment of Harry Barton as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Harry brings a wealth of experience in conservation leadership to the role, having previously led Devon Wildlife Trust and held senior leadership positions at organisations such as the Earth Trust and CPRE Kent.

“I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Chief Executive at Earthwatch Europe,” said Harry Barton. “Earthwatch’s commitment to citizen science and its focus on inspiring action for a sustainable future aligns perfectly with my passion for conservation and community engagement. I can’t wait to join the talented team at Earthwatch and I’m really looking forward to visiting as many projects as possible in the New Year.”

Lucian J. Hudson, Earthwatch Europe’s Chair of Trustees added:

“We are delighted to welcome Harry Barton as the new Chief Executive of Earthwatch Europe. Harry’s extensive experience in conservation, coupled with his passion for citizen science and community engagement, make him an exceptional leader to take Earthwatch to new heights. We are confident that under Harry’s leadership, Earthwatch will continue to make a significant impact on conservation and inspire people and organisations to take action for a sustainable future. The Trustees would also like to extend our deep thanks and appreciation to Steve Andrews for his outstanding leadership and dedication to Earthwatch Europe. His vision and commitment have been instrumental in re-shaping Earthwatch into the organisation it is today”.

Harry joins Earthwatch at a pivotal moment, building on the success of recent initiatives. Harry joins Earthwatch at an exciting time, following the success of two highly successful WaterBlitz campaigns, which engaged over 7,000 citizen scientists. Additionally, Earthwatch’s Nature in Cities programme reached a significant milestone, planting its 250th Tiny Forest, bringing us halfway to the 500-forest goal by 2030.

Harry will take up his new position in January 2025, taking over from Steve Andrews who has held the post since 2019.