The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), a global charity and partnership dedicated to protecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises, has announced the appointment of Christopher Pickard as its new Chief Executive Officer. The WCA unites grassroots NGOs, research institutes, responsible tour operators, individuals and companies worldwide to safeguard cetaceans and their habitats.

Pickard brings decades of conservation and sustainable tourism expertise to the role, with strategic leadership experience spanning international conservation, responsible tourism development, and NGO management. His background includes public sector leadership as Director of Tourism for the British Overseas Territory of St Helena, where he championed sustainable practices in a vulnerable marine ecosystem, and industry representation as Chair of the Latin American Travel Association and its charitable foundation, and Communications Director for the World Travel & Tourism Council.

A published author, documentary filmmaker, and journalist, Pickard also established and led the Brazilian Tourist Office in the UK and has served as Chair of the Anglo-Brazilian Society. His media insight and international network position him well to amplify the WCA’s global voice for ocean conservation.

“Having spent my career building international partnerships and championing sustainable practices in vulnerable ecosystems, I’m inspired by the WCA’s collaborative model,” says Pickard. “The challenges facing cetaceans—from ship strikes to habitat loss—require unified action across borders and sectors. The WCA’s global alliance demonstrates that conservation works best when we act together, and I’m committed to expanding our reach and impact.”

Under Pickard’s leadership, the WCA will continue to grow its signature programmes, including Whale Heritage Areas, responsible whale and dolphin watching verification, and ship strike prevention initiatives. A key priority will be deepening engagement with the travel, tourism and cruise industries to champion wildlife tourism that prioritises animal welfare and sustainable practices.

“Many cetacean populations live close to shore in areas vital to coastal tourism, while those in remote waters increasingly encounter cruise ships and expedition vessels,” Pickard notes. “Tourism can be a powerful force for conservation when done responsibly, and the WCA is uniquely positioned to lead and help this transformation.”

Outgoing CEO Sophie Lewis commented: “Leading the World Cetacean Alliance has been a true privilege. Thanks to our dedicated team, we’ve expanded the Whale Heritage Areas network and helped destinations strengthen responsible whale watching standards that protect cetaceans while supporting community stewardship. As scrutiny around animal welfare and environmental performance grows, our programmes provide the industry with a clear, science-based framework for responsible growth. I’m delighted to hand over to Chris, whose experience and vision will take the organisation to new heights.”

ABOUT THE WORLD CETACEAN ALLIANCE
The World Cetacean Alliance is a UK-registered charity with a diverse, international partnership that unites people across the world to protect cetaceans by sharing knowledge, aligning conservation efforts, and reducing threats from human activities.

One of the WCA’s key programmes is Whale Heritage Areas, a global network of outstanding destinations for responsible whale and dolphin watching, where local communities are empowered to celebrate, respect and protect cetaceans and their habitats.

Through collaboration with NGOs, research institutions, communities, and responsible tourism operators across six continents, the WCA advances science-based conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and ocean stewardship.

Website: https://worldcetaceanalliance.org/