Sarah Bladen
About Sarah Bladen
Sarah Bladen serves as the Senior Director of Communications and Partnerships at Global Fishing Watch, where she has contributed to the development of data analysis tools for ocean management since 2018. With a background in communications from various organizations, including WWF and BBC, she has extensive experience in promoting environmental advocacy and building strategic partnerships.
Work at Global Fishing Watch
Sarah Bladen serves as the Senior Director of Communications and Partnerships at Global Fishing Watch since 2018. In this role, she has contributed to the development of map visualizations and data analysis tools that support scientific research and ocean management. She has implemented strategic communications initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency in ocean governance. Additionally, she has played a key role in building partnerships that align with Global Fishing Watch's mission of making human activity at sea publicly accessible.
Previous Experience at WWF
Before joining Global Fishing Watch, Sarah Bladen worked at WWF for nine years as the Communications Director for WWF-Greater Mekong from 2005 to 2014. Her responsibilities included managing communications strategies across multiple countries, including Vietnam and Thailand. Prior to that, she served as the Online Campaigns Manager at WWF International from 2000 to 2005, where she focused on digital advocacy and online engagement.
Background in Broadcasting and Journalism
Sarah Bladen began her career in broadcasting and journalism. She worked as a Freelance Reporter and Researcher for the BBC Radio Arts Programme from 1998 to 1999 in Edinburgh, Scotland. She also held positions at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation as a Radio Producer from 1996 to 1997 in Sydney, Australia, and as a Radio News and Current Affairs Journalist at SBS Australia from 1997 to 1999. This background has provided her with a strong foundation in media and communications.
Education and Expertise
Sarah Bladen studied at Charles Sturt University, where she majored in Broadcast Journalism and Media Production, earning a BA in Communications from 1994 to 1996. Her education has equipped her with skills in media production and communication strategies. She has expertise in leveraging online activism to promote environmental issues and advocacy campaigns, which has been a significant aspect of her career in various organizations.
Role at Marine Stewardship Council
From 2014 to 2018, Sarah Bladen served as the Global Communications and Marketing Director at the Marine Stewardship Council in London, United Kingdom. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing communications and marketing strategies to promote sustainable fishing practices. Her work contributed to raising awareness about marine conservation and responsible seafood sourcing.