Property consultancy Harris Lamb has appointed a principal ecologist to its CIEEM-accredited environmental department to meet the growing demand for its services.
Susan Sweetman joins from Wakefield Council and brings more than 15 years experience in key ecological roles throughout the UK to the business, including positions at Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.
Susan, who has an Honours degree in Zoology from the University of Edinburgh and a master’s degree in Conservation and Biodiversity from the University of Leeds, has a particular passion for botany and nature-based solutions.
Dr Holly Smith, head of Harris Lamb’s Environmental department, said: “We are delighted to welcome Susan to our team, where, thanks to her enthusiasm and extensive experience within the field, she will be a huge asset.
“Susan brings a diverse range of skills to the business, including a track record of conducting ecological appraisals, protected species surveys, Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and is also experienced in providing advice on ecological legislation, policy and knowledge to clients, community groups, landowners, planners and developers.
“Her understanding and confidence in explaining the risks to the environment and penalties faced by stakeholders are essential skills that will be of huge benefit to our clients,” added Holly.
Susan has a passion for protected species, having obtained a Natural England great crested newt survey licence and gained a wealth of experience carrying out bat surveys on top of voluntary work conducted with the Derbyshire Bat Group, in addition to pursuing further experience of carrying out surveys for otter, water vole and white-clawed crayfish.
Susan said: “I was attracted to Harris Lamb due to its excellent reputation for practising ecology within the commercial sector, and I welcomed the opportunity to continue to work with a diverse range of stakeholders to advise on and oversee ecological projects and further their understanding of the importance of sustainability.
“I am passionate about protecting species and habitats and helping them to thrive and am looking forward to providing additional ecological expertise to the commercial and residential developments, and to helping to bring these to fruition while both protecting and enhancing wildlife and biodiversity throughout the country.”
