Charting a Course for Ocean Conservation: Meet Our New Leadership Team
(2023)
We are delighted to announce an exciting new chapter in our organization’s journey as we introduce a new senior leadership team that will guide us into the future. With their diverse expertise and shared passion for ocean conservation, these individuals are poised to lead the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation to new heights, bolstering our mission to preserve, protect, and restore the health of our living oceans.
The Foundation has promoted Alexandra Dempsey to be our new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Alex brings with her a deep knowledge of the Foundation and our scientific research, as she first joined us to survey reefs on the Global Reef Expedition in 2011. Since then, she has surveyed coral reefs around the world, authored dozens of scientific papers, and gained a deep understanding of coral reefs and the threats they face. Her experience and expertise in coral reef ecosystems will not only be instrumental in shaping our science programs, it will help guide the Foundation into the future as we continue to work towards the conservation and sustainability of our precious marine ecosystems.
Joining the leadership team is Amy Heemsoth, the Foundation’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Amy has run the Foundation’s Education programs for the past ten years, launching new educational programs and creating innovative educational materials to teach students about coral reefs and mangrove forests. Amy’s proven expertise in running the Foundation’s financial operations will ensure the continued stewardship of our resources, enabling us to execute our projects effectively. Moreover, her unwavering commitment to education will ensure that our educational programs reach an even broader audience, inspiring the next generation of ocean advocates.
We are also delighted to welcome Liz Thompson onto the Foundation’s senior leadership team as our new Chief Communications Officer (CCO). Liz brings extensive experience in strategic communications and a genuine passion for environmental conservation. With her creative and innovative approach, she will spearhead the Foundation’s outreach and communication efforts, helping us connect with individuals and organizations worldwide. Liz’s expertise will amplify our message and engage communities in ocean conservation.
As we embark on this new era of leadership, we remain committed to the preservation, protection, and restoration of our living oceans. The Foundation’s new leadership team embodies our three-pronged approach, harnessing the combined power of scientific research, education, and outreach to make a lasting impact in marine conservation. With Alex Dempsey, Amy Heemsoth, and Liz Thompson working together, we are confident that their collective vision, dedication, and expertise will propel the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation towards even greater success.
Moving forward, we will continue to invest in cutting-edge scientific research, develop practical science-based solutions, advance ocean literacy, and empower communities to safeguard our marine environments for future generations. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey as we work tirelessly to create a sustainable future for our oceans and the countless lives they support. Together, we can make a profound difference in the health of our living oceans.
