STAFFING
Northumberland IFCA employs a dedicated team of 15 staff, all based at our office at Ennerdale Road in Blyth, Northumberland. The organisation is led by Chief Officer Mark Southerton, who holds overall responsibility for the management of the Authority. Mark provides strategic leadership across planning, budget control, policy implementation, public engagement, and byelaw development and review. He is supported by a management team comprising the leads of each of NIFCA’s core functions: Environmental, Enforcement, Administration, and Finance. The Environmental team is headed by Lead Environmental IFCO Alex Aitken, whose leadership ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality outputs. The team of five brings a strong foundation in marine environmental science and leads on the Authority’s conservation duties. Their work includes setting research priorities, conducting MPA assessments and surveys, developing monitoring programmes, and overseeing NIFCA’s responsibilities in relation to European Marine Sites (EMS), Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs), and Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA). Three Environmental IFCOs are also warranted officers and support enforcement duties as needed. Enforcement is led by Lead Enforcement IFCO Nick Weir, who manages a team of five IFCOs. This team plays a vital role in gathering intelligence, enabling the Authority to proactively address compliance challenges. The team prioritises education and engagement, operating with professionalism and a preventative approach. However, where necessary, the Authority will use the full range of enforcement tools to uphold regulations and ensure sustainable practices. Emma Cosimini leads the Administrative team, supported by two part-time administrators. This team manages the day-to-day office operations, oversees permit allocation and renewals, maintains essential systems, and delivers NIFCA’s HR function. They also manage the Authority’s digital communications, including website and social media platforms. The Finance function is led by Finance Officer Julian Sutton, a qualified accountant who ensures effective financial oversight across payroll, investment, and budget management. Julian plays a key role in maintaining financial integrity and works closely with Northumberland County Council, who conduct an annual audit to ensure the Authority operates with transparency and accountability.
4
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator