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Peterborough-based charity PECT has appointed Dr Toby Willison, Executive Director of Operations at the Environment Agency, as the new Chair of its Board.

In his new role, Toby will work alongside the environmental organisation’s Board, staff, volunteers and partners to deliver ambitious plans for the future.

Toby first worked on climate change 25 years ago while researching the impact land use change has on carbon fluxes. For the last five years as Executive Director of Operations, Toby has been responsible for the Environment Agency’s activities to mitigate and respond to climate change.

Talking about his new role at PECT, Toby explained: “The greatest risk in the Climate Emergency is thinking that someone else will sort it! Almost daily the effects of climate change become more evident and we face a catastrophic loss of biodiversity. Local NGOs have a major role to play in helping our communities to be more sustainable and cohesive. I believe that PECT has a massive part to play in joining up these challenges in Peterborough and beyond.”

He continued: “I am excited and honoured to become Chair of PECT at this important time, mindful that the previous Chair Steve Magenis leaves big shoes to fill. I would like to thank him for his fantastic dedication and support he has shown PECT over the years. His hard work has had a far-reaching and long-lasting impact.”

Handing over the role during the charity’s November AGM, Steve Magenis, who had been Chair of PECT’s Board for more than a decade, said: “I am and always will be immensely proud of the PECT team’s passion for making a difference. This is a very exciting time for the charity, and I believe Toby will be a great addition for building on the organisation’s continued success.”

“It’s been a real privilege to work at the forefront of sustainability over the last 11 years. I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to lead such a fantastic organisation and would like to extend a huge thank you to the whole PECT team and its partners.”

PECT aims to make places better for people and the planet: delivering innovative projects of local, regional and national significance, and enabling change for a smarter future.

For further information about PECT, call 01733 568408 or visit www.pect.org.uk.