George Leonard

George Leonard has a diverse work experience in the field of marine conservation and sustainability. George started their career as a Program Manager at Communication Partnership for Science and the Sea, where they helped advance marine conservation science and policy through the creation of COMPASS. George then joined Monterey Bay Aquarium as a Senior Science Manager, where they played a key role in developing the Seafood Watch sustainable seafood program and expanding its focus to include organic aquaculture and offshore fish farming. George later served as the Aquaculture Program Director at Ocean Conservancy, where they developed and implemented strategies to ensure sustainable development of marine aquaculture. George also held the position of Director of Strategic Initiatives at Ocean Conservancy, overseeing scientific working groups and launching initiatives to address plastic pollution and ocean acidification. Currently, George is the Chief Scientist at Ocean Conservancy, providing strategic input and scientific leadership across various programs.

George Leonard completed their Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Middlebury College between 1982 and 1986. George then pursued their Master of Science in Marine Ecology from Moss Landing Marine Laboratories from 1990 to 1993. Later, they attended Brown University, where they earned their Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from 1993 to 1998.