In response to the growth in construction projects and an increase in demand from landowners and developers requiring advice on how to meet government legislation regarding biodiversity net gain, East Midlands Environmental Consultancy (EMEC) has appointed two new ecologists.
Joining the company are senior ecologist Vicky Philpott and ecologist Laura McClelland.
Vicky, who lives near Swadlincote, South Derbyshire, holds a BSc (Hons) in Biology, a Certificate in Ecological Consultancy, Level 2 class licence to survey for bats and Level 1 class licence to survey for great crested newts. She is also an associate member of CIEEM and completed mental health training courses.
Prior to joining EMEC, Vicky worked for Natural England as a Wildlife Lead Adviser which included assessing licence applications for bats, piscivorous birds and geese. She has also worked for other ecological consultancies rising from graduate to senior ecologist.
In her new role, Vicky will undertake and lead habitat and species surveys, manage projects, and help manage a team of other ecologists.
Commenting on her appointment, Vicky said: “EMEC’s affiliation with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust certainly appealed and I’m very excited to get involved with the wide variety of projects that EMEC is currently working on.”
Laura, lives in Stoke on Trent, and has previously worked at a number of other consultancies where she has built her skills and experience.
She holds a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Conversation, MSc in Ecology and Conservation, great crested newt licence, a Field Identification Skills Certificate, as well as qualifications in tree climbing and aerial rescue.
In her new role as an ecologist, Laura will carry out species surveys, manage projects and be doing QGIS mapping, biodiversity impact assessments and helping clients to deliver biodiversity net gain.
Laura added: “During my interview I got a really good feeling about the company and was delighted to be offered the role, especially because all the profits EMEC make will be directly re-invested in conservation via NWT. This was a huge attraction for me.”
