Short CV

  • Barrister and experienced public international lawyer specializing in international law of the sea, particularly international fisheries and deep seabed minerals. Proven executive leadership with two terms as the elected head of a UN system organization. Extensive consulting experience in fisheries, environmental, and international law across Europe, Asia, Eastern Europe, the South Pacific, and Africa.

  • International Law of the Sea Expertise: Deep understanding of the legal framework governing the oceans, particularly in the areas of fisheries and deep seabed minerals.

    Executive Leadership: Eight years of experience leading the International Seabed Authority, demonstrating strategic planning, staff management, and budgetary oversight.

    Legal Practice: Over 35 years of experience as a legal practitioner, including 10 years of judicial experience and 25 years specializing in international and law of the sea matters. Admitted as a barrister in the UK.

    Multilateral Negotiations: Extensive experience serving as secretariat to high-level negotiations at regional, international, and global levels.

    International Civil Service: Comprehensive knowledge of UN system policies, procedures, and operations, including legal, personnel, and budgetary aspects.

    Communication and Drafting: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including drafting complex legal documents such as treaties, contracts, and reports.

    Cultural Adaptability: Over 25 years of experience living and working in diverse cultural environments.

  • London School of Economics and Political Science, MSc Marine Policy (1995)
    Barrister-at-Law, Gray’s Inn, London (1981)
    University of East Anglia, UK, Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (1980)

  • English (native)
    I-Kiribati (fluent)
    Melanesian Pijin (fluent)
    French (working knowledge)
    Spanish (basic)

  • Barrister and arbitrator, (2025-)

    Secretary-General, International Seabed Authority Kingston, Jamaica (2017-2024)
    Led the international organization responsible for regulating deep seabed mining in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

    Deputy to the Secretary-General and Legal Counsel, International Seabed Authority, Kingston, Jamaica (2011-2016)
    Provided legal counsel and served as deputy to the Secretary- General.

    Legal Counsel, International Seabed Authority, Kingston, Jamaica (2007-2010)
    Oversaw legal matters for the Authority.

    Counsellor, Round Table on Sustainable Development, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Paris (2004-2007)
    Contributed to the OECD’s work on sustainable development.

    Chief, Office of Legal Affairs, International Seabed Authority | Kingston, Jamaica (1996-2004)
    Managed the Authority’s legal affairs.

    Legal Counsel, South Pacific Forum Fisheries Agency, Honiara, Solomon Islands (1991-1995)
    Provided legal expertise to the regional fisheries management organization.

    Chief Magistrate and Registrar of the High Court, Solomon Islands (1986-1991)
    Presided over court proceedings and managed court administration.

    People’s Lawyer, Kiribati (1983-1986)
    Represented and advocated for the legal needs of the people of Kiribati.

    Barrister-at-law, Middle Temple, London (1981-1983)
    Practiced law in London.

This CV focuses on experience and skills relevant to international law and leadership.

For a complete list of publications, lectures, and appointments, please refer to the full CV which is available on request.

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