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.

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)

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.