Our Team

Staff team:

Dr Rose O'Neill, Chief Executive

Rose joined Campaign for National Parks in September 2021 following a career in environmental campaigning, policy and research. She has a PhD in environmental science specialising in behavioural change and a masters in geology. Rose is a member of Natural England’s Landscape Advisory Panel and is Vice Chair of Wessex Rivers Trust. Previously, she led the high-profile UK rivers programme at WWF, building partnerships to connect grass-roots campaigners with Westminster decision-makers. From a working class background, Rose is passionate about creating opportunities for everyone to connect with nature and the wonders of National Parks. She lives close to the South Downs National Park with her young family.

Ruth Bradshaw, Policy & Research Manager

Ruth has over 25 years’ experience in a variety of policy analysis and influencing roles. Prior to joining Campaign for National Parks in 2012 she was Head of Infrastructure Policy at London Councils and has previously worked for the Countryside Agency and the Commission for Rural Communities. When not working, she can often be found walking or cycling in one of the National Parks.

Anna Bedford, Programme Manager

Anna joined us in March 2022 and has over 15 years’ experience in the third and public sector with a specialism in nature conservation having completed a Masters in Biodiversity and Conservation. With a broad skillset including countryside and project management, finance, fundraising and people management, she previously managed Winkworth Arboretum for the National Trust and Lepe Country Park in the New Forest National Park. Anna has long since supported the work of Campaign for National Parks, having recently completed a term as Trustee at the end of 2021.

Jessica Glover, Development Manager

Our Development Manager Jessica joined us in April 2022. Originally from a digital marketing background, Jessica was lured into the world of fundraising ten years ago when she was involved in a capital appeal project to build a new library. She now has a varied fundraising experience from youth, education and arts sectors. Committed to opening up the profession to others, she is a member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising’s East Anglia committee.

Nick Hall, Political Affairs and Campaigns Manager

Nick joined Campaign for National Parks in May 2022 to help deliver impactful campaigns and influence government through engagement with politicians, civil servants and stakeholders across England and Wales. Nick brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked for nearly a decade at the Campaign for Science and Engineering, and before then in a variety of Parliamentary offices across Westminster. He currently lives in East London but uses every opportunity to escape the capital and enjoy the UK's natural landscapes.

Gareth Ludkin, Policy & Projects Officer

Gareth joined us in January 2023 as Policy and Projects Officer based in Cardiff, spearheading our Welsh campaigns. He has a wealth of experience in environmental campaigning, advocacy and project management and is passionate about tackling the climate and ecological emergencies we face. Gareth spends lots of time hiking and trail running in Welsh National Parks and AONBs.

Harriet Gardiner, Senior Communications Officer

Harriet joined in January 2023 and is leading our communications. She comes from a varied background in digital engagement, illustration and digital content creation for a variety of NGOs. Growing up in the South Downs, she has a passion for UK nature and often travels around the UK to hike, kayak and scuba dive.

Lily Whitmarsh, Campaigns Assistant

Lily joined us in July 2023 as New to Nature trainee after completing a degree in design and climate communication. Growing up between the Dales and the Peak District, she has a longstanding love of National Parks. Now based in London, Lily is passionate about improving access to National Parks for those living in urban areas, as well as young people and those from marginalized backgrounds.

Margot Dempsey, Senior Development Officer

Margot joined us in January 2024 and brings a wealth of experience from her previous work in the travel and charitable sectors. She has a keen interest in wildlife conservation and believes that the Partnerships for the Goals (SDG No.17) are crucial in tackling climate change. Margot’s love for nature and the outdoors was instilled during her childhood in Sydney, Australia, and she enjoys spending time in National Parks with her family, going on long dog walks and exploring the great outdoors.

To contact our team, please email info@cnp.org.uk.