Sam Yates

Lead the development and prioritisation of RSPB Cymru's strategic project pipeline, capital investment programme and funding opportunities across Wales. Responsible for shaping projects from concept to delivery readiness, aligning investment decisions with organisational priorities, operational needs, funding opportunities and emerging Nature Finance initiatives.

Key projects: Ynys-hir Masterplan, Conwy Active Travel Route, redevelopment of Ynys Edwin, new workshop and welfare facilities at RSPB Conwy, species recovery programmes for Black Grouse and Curlew, and strategic capital investment planning across the Welsh reserve network.

Managed a diverse portfolio of capital, conservation and infrastructure projects across Wales, delivering projects from concept and funding development through to implementation and benefits realisation. Responsible for governance, procurement, financial management, stakeholder engagement, planning and environmental compliance.

Delivered major projects including the £1.3m South Stack Visitor Centre construction, Ramsey Island coastal protection works and a range of species recovery, visitor infrastructure and operational improvement projects.

Managed complex international programmes and projects across digital transformation, e-commerce and technology. Delivered the global rollout of online payments capability across 55+ countries and led major e-commerce transformation programmes, managing multi-disciplinary teams across international markets.

Managed the global delivery of WAN, telephony and VoIP services across 200+ British Council locations worldwide. Coordinated rollout with Cable & Wireless and Vodafone, managing complex logistics, technical migrations and service transition across multiple countries whilst maintaining service continuity.

Managed the development and implementation of digital systems supporting the British Council's global examinations business. Delivered global examinations quality and compliance systems, website development and supporting technologies to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

Founded and continue to lead an education-focused charity supporting rural communities in Tanzania. Responsible for programme development, governance, financial management, fundraising, volunteer coordination and infrastructure projects — including the development of three education centres and vocational training facilities.