16 February, 2016
Fiona Reid has decided to step down as Director of UKCDS. Dr Helen Beadman, Head of International at NERC, has taken up the role of interim Director.
Due to a change in personal circumstances, Fiona Reid has decided to step down as Director of UKCDS.
Since joining UKCDS in September, Fiona has brought a renewed sense of focus and purpose to the organisation. Her leadership and energy has been greatly appreciated.
Dr Helen Beadman, Head of International at NERC, has taken up the role of interim Director while arrangements are made to find a more permanent replacement.
Helen has a wealth of experience in international research funding and development issues, through activities such as the Newton Fund. She has been working at NERC for over 10 years, where she has held a number of roles, including managing the UK Environmental Observation Framework and acted as secretariat to the Belmont Forum.
“I am very excited to be taking the lead at UKCDS during such an important time for UK global development research,” said Helen on her new role. “I aim to maintain the momentum of Fiona’s work, its sense of direction and opportunity.”
Two other members of the UKCDS Secretariat are also set to leave in March, to take on exciting new opportunities elsewhere. Ian Thornton has been UKCDS Deputy Director since 2012 and took on the role of interim Director for almost a year. Alex Gwyther, who has worked as UKCDS Communications Manager for over two years, will also be leaving. They have been a great credit to the Secretariat and we wish them both well in their future careers.