Leigh Abbott
What employment sector do you work in?
NGO Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
3+ years
Please describe the work that you do.
I am the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Engagement Officer at CIEEM. My role is all about people. Those within the profession, those who attend our events and training and who we work with, and those we hope to be part of the profession. Overall, my role is to increase diversity, inclusion and a sense of belonging into the profession through active listening and taking action as a team. If you would like a chat about any of the work I do or the Championing Change agenda, please reach out to me!
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
Seeing people supported, understood, and knowing that they can do their jobs without additional barriers or constraints. It’s always lovely to see people thriving.
What inspired you into this career?
I grew up in a single parent background, raised by my mother and grandmother. We didn’t have much, yet my family would always give to others- whether that was material items, money, food or their time- with the intention of if everyone is listened to and supported, then the world is a better place for it. I know it sounds cheesy, but I knew I wanted to be in a profession that held those values, and to be in a Green Job for Nature where I help the planet as well as people is a double bonus for me!
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
I first started off down the academic route of hoping to achieve a PhD to be a researcher in disability advocacy and intersectionality. However, having lots of fixed term contracts as a research assistant in the interim prior to attempting for a PhD put me off it for life! Although I didn’t end up going down my predicted route in academia, it was the best thing for me as I now work in equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDI) and I love it!
What education/training did you have?
Contrary to most, I do not have a background in ecology, but in psychology. Specifically, BSc and MRes with a focus on neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience (with a long list of training courses and microcredentials that come under EDI!). My career has always been and is in advocating and supporting people (even in voluntary roles), especially those who may fall under the radar in our society.
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
There are so many routes into ecology and environmental management, and so many jobs that don’t fit the stereotypical roles in the profession- you can work in the profession without an ecology background as you are hired based on your skillset. For example, you can be someone like me, or work in communications, admin, HR, finance, IT etc- the list goes on and on!
A Green Job for Nature is an opportunity to work in an area you are qualified in as well as helping the planet and people within it.
—
Tags: Wales, NGO sector, Diversity and inclusion
Date profile submitted: 17/10/2025
Related Job Profiles
Monique Rodgers
Anita Henderson
