Testimonials

Jane Diplock AO, Chair Global Reporting Initiative:
Great working with Katherine on a number of sustainability projects! Her passion for the environment, especially her commitment to the marine sector, her talent, professionalism and values shine through all of her work! She is focussed, pragmatic and collaborative. A delight to work with.

Michael Sutton, Executive Director Goldman Foundation:
I've worked with Katherine for more than 30 years, and she's still one of the most effective conservation advocates I know! She knows ocean issues inside and out, and never hesitates to take on tough assignments. When we first worked together, the Marine Stewardship Council was in its infancy, still an unproven approach to fisheries conservation. Katherine not only helped prove it could work, but helped it succeed beyond anyone's expectations. She has never hesitated to embrace high-risk, high-return strategies, and as a result has achieved more than most people will ever dream of doing! Here's to another decade of excellence! 

Dr. Suzy Black, Science Team Leader - Physiology & Behaviour, Seafood Production
New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science
I have had the privilege of working with Katherine in two significant contexts: first, within the Precision Seafood Harvesting project developing the FloMo™ gentle fishing technology, and more recently (2019–2025) on the Whakapōhewa ki Ahumoana – Reimagining Aquaculture project, which aimed to develop a novel mobile open-ocean aquaculture technology for finfish.

Katherine embodies ocean advocacy in every sense—she truly lives and breathes it. Throughout our collaboration, I have been consistently impressed by her breadth of knowledge across marine and coastal systems. She brings not only deep environmental expertise but also a nuanced understanding of the perspectives and challenges faced by the fishing and aquaculture industries, government agencies, the research community, and, most importantly, the cultural dimensions that span them all. Her insights extend beyond the New Zealand context, enriched by extensive international experience and a remarkable global network. Katherine approaches every endeavour with passion, integrity, and energy. Her ability to integrate diverse viewpoints and deliver innovative solutions makes her an invaluable collaborator and a true champion for sustainable oceans.

Dr Arata Izawa, Fisheries Researcher Yanmar Ltd:
Katherine played a central role in the Marine Program of the global WWF network, bringing together representatives from various countries and leading the program. Despite the diverse social backgrounds and values of each representative’s country, she always empathized with minority opinions, valued them, and facilitated overall coordination. It’s precisely because of this approach that she gained the trust of many and contributed to the program’s success. Even now, after leaving WWF, my trust in her continues, and we maintain our connection.

Melissa Clark-Reynolds ONZM, Futurist:
I have known Katherine for almost 20 years, and in that time our business relationship has morphed into friendship. I initially met Katherine when I was working as an Environmental Planner for the government, and Katherine was working for the City Council. Over the years I have seen Katherine work tirelessly as an advocate for the natural environment and marine life. She is committed to higher learning and increasing her knowledge and effectiveness in all areas of her life. Her communication skills are excellent, and she is truly a global citizen. I am always excited by a conversation with her, and her extensive network. Katherine is generous with her relationships, and is a consumate networker. My current business has a partnership with WWF, and it has been a pleasure to work alongside Katherine again.

Martin Exel, Executive Director SeaBOS:
I have worked with Katherine many times in the past two decades, and have always found her to be deeply passionate and professional in all endeavours, with high integrity, expertise, and timeliness in all her roles, and very insightful on aspects of social, governance, and ecosystem surrounding the marine field and associated people. Katherine goes “above and beyond” to deliver great results and value for clients, and I have always found her willing and open to new ideas and approaches that ensure positive outcomes. If anyone would like more details as a reference, please contact me via Linked In and I will happily provide an update and outline of her high-level skills, capabilities, and expertise.

Nigel Edwards, Seafood Industry Development Director at Hilton Seafood:
I have worked with Katherine on several occasions starting when WWF were building the MSC and reaching out to industry and politicians to advocate for sustainable fisheries management. Katherine has been a widely respected and leading voice globally in her work in fisheries. Katherine has exceptional expertise and brings creative and practical solutions to the complex problems we face in fisheries. Her strengths include cultural awareness and business acumen to work at building win-win solutions.

There are very few people who have the global knowledge and network that Katherine has built based on trusted relationships. Her integrity and personal commitment to sustainable, fair and equitable industry governance drive her reputation. I warmly recommend Katherine as a strategy developer, project leader and as a trusted representative of your organisation.

Alex Webb, Marine Stewardship Council:
On behalf of MSC Oceania, I want to extend heartfelt appreciation to Katherine. Her stewardship exemplified the spirit of World Ocean Day, uniting people across sectors to celebrate our oceans and take collective action for a sustainable future. Katherine’s professionalism and leadership were truly instrumental in making this event both memorable and impactful.

Tony Craig, Terra Moana
I have known Katherine for over 25 years and had the pleasure of working with her in business for 10 of those years. Katherine is a strong advocate for protecting the environment and all things in it,  with a particular focus on the health of our oceans and the people that depend on it. She is a brilliant networker and relationship builder and adopts a very professional approach when working with clients.  If you want something done, then she is your go to person.