Susan Davies

Acting Director of
Strategy & Operations
(North)

I joined SNH as it presented an opportunity to make the links between nature conservation and wider socio-economic agendas. Being able to see the practical outcome of specific projects at a country level is a bonus. It also meant I could move back to this magic small country.

Today, I influence the strategic direction of the issues we're currently facing and take responsibility for helping to shape our working practices. I really enjoy direct involvement with our local operations too. My work can either be focused internally - say on agreeing our annual research programme - or externally, like the re-launch of our £15 million grant-giving programme or advising on the science underpinning the Uist Wader Project, which involves a cull of non-native hedgehogs to save the breeding waders in the Western Isles .

Obviously there are challenges - and tough decisions too. We must improve our understanding of, and find ways to respond to, pressures like climate change or the impact of non-native species. We also need to find innovative ways of increasing people's understanding of the natural heritage and how it contributes to Scotland's economy. I enjoy being able to play my part in that.