As we embark on a new chapter at CPAWS Saskatchewan, we are excited to announce that Stewart (Stew) Coles will formally take on the role of Executive Director, effective immediately. This leadership transition follows the decision of Gord Vaadeland, our longtime Executive Director, to step down after many years of dedicated service to the organization and the conservation community.
Stew has been an integral part of the CPAWS Saskatchewan team since April 2018. His deep commitment to conservation and his expertise in environmental policy have been instrumental in shaping the chapter’s recent successes. Since November 2023, Stew has served as Acting Executive Director, guiding the team with deep commitment and vision, and we are thrilled to have him take on the Executive Director role officially.
Stew’s Journey to CPAWS Saskatchewan
Originally from the rugged coastlines and mountains of South Wales, Stew’s connection to nature runs deep. After moving to Canada in 2013, he made the Canadian prairies his home and now resides in Saskatoon. Stew’s career in conservation began long before his arrival in Canada. He worked with Natural England, the UK Government’s nature conservation agency, where he was a lead advisor on environmental policy. In this role, Stew played a key part in assessing environmental impacts, providing regulatory advice, and engaging with strategic planning for major development projects, all with the goal of protecting special habitats and species.
Stew’s time in the UK provided him with a robust foundation in conservation, which he brought to CPAWS Saskatchewan when he joined in 2018. Since then, his understanding of both environmental policy and the practical aspects of conservation efforts has greatly contributed to the success of our work in Saskatchewan. His leadership has helped steer CPAWS Saskatchewan toward numerous accomplishments, from protecting critical wildlife habitats to advocating for policies that promote sustainable land use.
A Leader with a Vision for the Future
Stew’s appointment as Executive Director marks an exciting new phase for CPAWS Saskatchewan. His leadership style blends deep expertise with a passion for protecting nature. He understands the importance of collaboration and relationship-building with governments, industries, and other organizations, an approach that mirrors the values Gord Vaadeland championed during his time as Executive Director.
As Stew steps into this new role, he is committed to continuing the work that has made CPAWS Saskatchewan a leader in conservation. With his experience in environmental policy, strategic planning, and his strong connections to the community, Stew is poised to guide the chapter into the future, ensuring that Saskatchewan’s landscapes remain protected for generations to come.
Gratitude to Gord Vaadeland
As we welcome Stew into his new role, we also extend our deepest gratitude to Gord Vaadeland, whose leadership has helped shape CPAWS Saskatchewan into the thriving organization it is today. Gord’s dedication to nature conservation and his tireless efforts to protect Saskatchewan’s natural heritage will continue to inspire us as we move forward. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and know he will continue to support the conservation movement in new ways.
Looking Ahead
With Stew continuing at the helm in an official capacity, CPAWS Saskatchewan is in excellent hands. Stew’s extensive experience, combined with his passion for conservation, will guide our chapter as we continue to advocate for policies that protect Saskatchewan’s natural resources, engage local communities, and build meaningful partnerships to advance conservation efforts across the province.
We are excited about what the future holds under Stew’s leadership and look forward to continuing to work toward a more sustainable, healthy, and protected natural environment for all.
Stay tuned as we continue to share updates on our work and the exciting initiatives we have in the pipeline.
Join us in welcoming Stewart Coles as Executive Director of CPAWS Saskatchewan! Together, we can continue to make a difference for nature.
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