Colin Speedie F.R.G.S.
THE WISE SCHEME FOUNDER
Colin Speedie is one of the UK's leading marine wildlife experts, with over 40 years of experience studying whales, dolphins and seabirds. A marine biologist, author and award-winning wildlife guide, he has dedicated his career to understanding and protecting marine life, particularly in the waters around the British Isles.
Colin is internationally recognised for his expertise in cetacean behaviour, identification and responsible wildlife watching. He has led countless marine expeditions, advised conservation organisations, contributed to scientific research, and authored several books on marine wildlife, including the acclaimed Wild Guide: Britain’s Sea Mammals. His engaging teaching style and extensive field experience have inspired generations of wildlife enthusiasts and marine professionals.
Colin has now retired as a Director and trainer for the WiSe Scheme but has left a lasting legacy.
Sue Sayer MBE
FOUNDER SEAL RESEARCH TRUST
Sue Sayer MBE is the Founder and Director of Seal Research Trust, an internationally recognised seal researcher, author and passionate advocate for marine conservation. Since establishing the charity in 2000, she has successfully led numerous conservation projects funded by organisations including Natural England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Defra.
Sue is the author of Seal Secrets and has contributed to numerous scientific publications on seal behaviour, entanglement, rehabilitation and marine pollution. She is a sought-after public speaker, WiSe Scheme Trainer specialising in seals and seabirds, and Associate Tutor for the Field Studies Council.
Awarded an MBE in 2023 for services to wildlife protection and conservation, Sue is dedicated to advancing marine conservation through research, education and inspiring the next generation to protect our oceans.
Dan Jarvis
DIRECTOR OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FOR BRITISH DIVERS MARINE LIFE RESCUE
Dan Jarvis is a marine biologist and ecologist with over 20 years' experience in marine mammal rescue and conservation. As Cornwall Area Coordinator for British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), he has attended thousands of marine mammal rescue callouts and plays a leading role in developing training, rescue protocols and international collaborations.
Dan also co-manages the Cornwall Seal Hospital, contributes to scientific research, and has delivered marine mammal response training across Europe and beyond. Alongside his work with BDMLR and the WiSe Scheme, Dan is also a Trustee of Seal Research Trust, and serves on the Mammal Society's Scientific Advisory Committee.
His outstanding contribution to marine mammal conservation was recognised in 2018 when he became the youngest recipient of the European Cetacean Society's Mandy McMath Conservation Award, honouring his dedication to seal welfare, rescue and conservation.
Deborah Benham Ph.D
TRANSITION NETWORK
Dr Deborah Benham is a marine biologist, nature connection practitioner and accredited biomimicry educator with almost 30 years' experience in marine conservation, education and community engagement. She is passionate about helping people reconnect with nature and apply the principles of living systems to create positive environmental change.
Deborah has worked across marine conservation, sustainable tourism and regenerative community development, supporting organisations and communities both in the UK and internationally. She has a PhD in sustainable tourism, specialising in stakeholder engagement and collaboration, and is widely recognised for her expertise in nature-based learning and systems thinking.
As a Director of the WiSe Scheme, Deborah brings a wealth of experience in responsible wildlife tourism, education and partnership working. She is committed to inspiring people to enjoy and protect marine wildlife through knowledge, respect and meaningful connections with the natural world.
Dr. Claire Eatock
UNIVERSITY OF EXETER
Dr Claire Eatock is the Impact and Partnership Development Manager for Renewable Energy and Extreme Environments at the University of Exeter. With over 20 years' experience working across academia, charities and industry, she is passionate about turning research into real-world solutions that benefit society and the environment.
Claire's research explores the relationship between marine activities, environmental health and human wellbeing. A qualified teacher, she has lectured internationally for more than a decade and is committed to engaging diverse audiences with marine science and conservation.
Alongside her academic career, Claire is an experienced outdoor instructor, leading kayaking and coasteering expeditions around the world. Her practical experience on the water complements her research and fuels her passion for promoting sustainable marine environments and responsible engagement with the coast.
Zoe George Yelland
COMMUNICATIONS, ADMIN & DIGITAL
Zoe is the WiSe Scheme's Marketing and Communications Coordinator, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. As the first point of contact for many operators, she manages the scheme's administration, marketing, digital content and communications. A dedicated conservation volunteer, Zoe also supports Seal Research Trust and the National Trust through coastal seal surveys and public engagement.
With a lifelong passion for the sea, Zoe is a former Day Skipper, Trustee of the Cornish Maritime Trust and pilot gig rower. She now enjoys kayaking, snorkelling and rockpooling with her young family, sharing her love of Cornwall's coastline and marine wildlife.
Alongside her work with WiSe, Zoe co-runs Chough Rock, a children's publishing company, creating nature-inspired books that encourage young people to connect with and care for wildlife. With a background in education, graphic design and e-learning, she combines creativity with conservation to inspire people of all ages to value and protect the natural world.