The Team

Fiona Humphreys

Fiona Humphreys is the Charity’s Development Manager and works a flexible 3-day week. Fiona has worked in the not-for-profit sector for the last 20 years in fundraising roles for Tearfund, Royal National Children’s Foundation and London Youth, before joining in December 2021. Fiona has helped raise awareness for the Charity, focussing on improving public access and setting up a volunteering programme. Now that the Charity has a digital platform, Fiona is hoping to nurture corporate partnerships and to gain support for projects from individuals and Trusts and Foundations. Please follow news about the Charity’s projects on Facebook and Instagram.

Jamie Kirkman

Jamie Kirkman is Gravetye’s forester and works flexible hours. Jamie started his career in forestry after the Great Storm in 1987, when there was a huge demand for woodcutters. Jamie learned practical skills whilst studying Arboriculture & Forestry at Sparsholt College near Winchester, and worked at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Natural England and as a private forestry contractor. With 35 years’ experience, Jamie splits his time between Balcombe Estate, where he is Head Forester, and Gravetye Estate. Jamie and forestry advisors are developing a 10-year forest management plan to deliver charitable mission as well as raising earned income, so that the Charity can be sustainable into the future.

Kari Thomas

Kari has many years’ experience in children’s education and is supporting the Charity with its mission to connect and engage children and young people with nature.  Through her links with schools and community groups, Kari is hoping to nurture volunteering and educational opportunities with primary and secondary school children and with local families and community groups.