The Environment Bank has announced the appointment of Catherine Spitzer as its new Chief Executive Officer.
An Environment Bank spokesperson said, “Catherine brings an enormous wealth of experience in implementing transformative growth strategies. As CEO, she will oversee our strategic direction, working closely with stakeholders to develop our innovative BNG solutions for developers in England. She will also oversee Environment Bank’s voluntary biodiversity market product, Nature Shares, enabling large corporations to achieve their nature-positive ambitions.”
Spitzer previously served for seven years as Managing Director of property consulting firm Bidwells LLP, and brings valuable expertise in the built environment sector.
Catherine Spitzer said, “I am delighted to join Environment Bank and to have the opportunity to contribute to such important work. This is a very exciting new phase for the company with the BNG regulations coming into force in February. I am looking forward with working with developers and delivering the highest integrity BNG solutions in the market.”
Environment Bank said it was bidding a fond farewell to outgoing CEO, James Cross. Before joining EB in 2018, Cross had been CEO of Natural England and Urban Green Newcastle. The EB spokesperson said that in his six years at Environment Bank, Cross’ expertise in growing and developing new environmental organisations has been invaluable.
James Cross said, “Working alongside Professor David Hill and building such an amazing team has been a career highlight for me. With the BNG regulations passing into law in February 2024, the time is right for me to now pass on the baton to Catherine. I wish her and the whole team the very best of luck for the next phase of their journey.”
Environment Bank Founder and Chairman, Professor David Hill CBE, said, “We extend our thanks to James for his many years of service and leadership. His passion for conservation and his strategic focus and expertise across the land-based sectors has been instrumental in shaping Environment Bank’s success. We wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”
Prof. Hill also offered Catherine a warm welcome to the team. He said, “Catherine brings a unique combination of private equity investment, leadership, commercial experience, and delivery to Environment Bank. We are excited to have her on board to lead the next stage of growth.”
Environment Bank has had an eventful year so far and we’ve got much yet to look forward to as summer approaches. In Catherine’s capable hands, we’re excited to see what the future holds.