Gillian Starling

Background

About Gillian Starling

Growing up in East Africa fuelled my passion for nature and a desire to contribute to its management and a sustainable future. Having worked in marine ecosystem management, climate change and sustainability in Australia and Asia- Pacific for over 20 years, I have witnessed first-hand the devastating ecological and social impacts from increasing population demands and climate change. However, I am equally hopeful in the role nature can play; to support biodiversity, community livelihoods, and to respond to climate change. I am committed to being part of a global change in how we live and protect our resources, especially for those communities dependent on them. I am a highly organised, effective and efficient leader. I draw on my leadership experience and capacity building skills as Managing Director of MCC Sustainable Futures to lead our team working across a diverse portfolio of projects in Environmental Management, Climate and Sustainability in the public and private sectors in Australia and internationally. Boundary spanning is a term that has been used to describe my ability to connect people and create links and innovative networks. I provide a breadth of perspective having worked across government, private sector, research and policy and planning. I have had exposure to most of the stakeholder groups that might inform a Sustainable Ocean Plan. I understand their roles and perspectives, and the tensions between the groups is something I have insight on – and importantly have ideas around ways to broker solutions. My expertise and specialisation includes; Ocean Managment, the Oceans_Climate nexus and Blue Economy. I develop, implement and lead programs that bridge gaps between science, policy and management. I am drawn to the Pacific, and working together with Pacific partners and communities to support a resilient blue pacific future that includes a sustainable blue economy, and careful co-management of natural resources. However, I am passionate about working alongside all individuals, communities and companies to help them contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), most closely on UNSD13 (climate) and 14 (oceans). I am proud to be an alumni of Homeward Bound - a global leadership network of women in STEM who are better positioned to help make a change on how we address important global issues on the Environment, Climate Change and Gender Equality for a Sustainable future. I am committed to showcasing a new style of leadership that is collaborative, inclusive, authentic and had a legacy mindset.