Dr. Cleo Cunningham is a seasoned conservationist with over 20 years of experience dedicated to protecting nature and supporting communities. As the Head of Global Conservation Programmes at BirdLife International, she oversees initiatives focused on forests, marine conservation, climate change, migratory flyways, and species protection across the BirdLife global partnership of more than 120 national conservation organizations.
Holding a BA, Master’s and PhD that integrated natural and social sciences, Dr. Cunningham’s expertise spans forest restoration, international fisheries, sustainable agriculture, protected areas, and nature-based solutions. She is deeply committed to locally-led projects that deliver benefits for nature, people, and climate, and recognizes the strength derived from collaborative efforts among the extensive BirdLife partnership network.