At the Spey Catchment Initiative, our dedicated team is driven by a shared passion for environmental conservation and a commitment to protecting the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Spey Catchment. With a diverse range of expertise and experience, we work collaboratively to implement impactful projects and initiatives that positively impact the local communities and ecosystems.
Our Team
Roger Knight
Chief Executive Officer
Appointed in early 2024, Roger Knight serves as the first Chief Executive Officer of the Spey Catchment Initiative (SCI). He joins SCI after over 18 years of transformative leadership as Director of the Spey Fishery Board, where he pioneered numerous initiatives to promote sustainable practices and spearheaded the founding of SCI itself.
Roger brings a wealth of experience in environmental stewardship and a profound commitment to enhancing river habitats, protecting wildlife, and supporting local communities. His vision includes expanding SCI’s restoration efforts and building strong partnerships across both private and public sectors to ensure the long-term sustainability of the catchment area.
Connect with Roger on Linkedin here:
Phil Whitfield
Nature Restoration Officer
Phil joined the team in December 2023 to expand the team’s capacity in planning and implementing restoration projects. Phil is a Chartered Forester with long experience in planning and managing woodlands, working with communities and with a real passion for Landscape Ecology. Phil brings over thirty years of experience from both public and private sector woodland management, including in Speyside, and has a powerful belief in the importance of riparian woodlands in our landscapes and their vital role in the health of our ecosystems.
Connect with Phil on Linkedin here:
Penny Lawson
Project Officer
Penny plays a pivotal role in the planning and implementing restoration projects within the Spey Catchment. With her expertise in river ecology and dedication to nature based restoration, Penny works closely with partner organisations and local communities to deliver impactful projects and drive meaningful change in the region.
Connect with Penny on Linkedin here:
Paul Hughes
Head of Communications
Paul Hughes is a skilled communications leader and former Geography teacher with a lifelong passion for the natural world. As Head of Communications for the Spey Catchment Initiative,
Paul draws on his background in environmental conservation and digital strategy to lead campaigns that raise awareness and support for conservation across the Spey catchment. His expertise in media relations, stakeholder engagement, and content creation enhances SCI’s public profile and strengthens its mission to protect vital river ecosystems.
By combining data-driven insights with compelling storytelling, Paul ensures SCI’s message resonates with communities and partners alike.
Connect with Paul on Linkedin here:
Duncan Ferguson
Operations Manager (employed by the Spey Fishery Board)
As the Operations Manager for the Spey Catchment Initiative, Duncan brings extensive knowledge in project management and a strong background in environmental conservation. We are grateful to the Spey Fishery Board for generously seconding Duncan’s time to support the work of the Spey Catchment Initiative. With their support, Duncan plays a pivotal role in overseeing the smooth execution of projects and the efficient coordination of resources. With his meticulous approach and unwavering commitment to delivering successful outcomes, Duncan ensures that our initiatives are effectively implemented to achieve our conservation goals within the Spey Catchment.
Connect with Duncan on Linkedin here:
Join our Team
Current vacancies
We currently have no vacancies. Please check back here or follow us on social media for updates on future opportunities to join our team and support our work to protect and enhance the Spey Catchment.
Our Board Members
More information coming soon.
Members of our Steering Group Members
More information coming soon.
