As the National Park marks International Women’s Day this March, we asked women across the organisation what makes working here so important to them. From work that’s happening on the ground to the projects taking place behind the scenes, each of them brings a different perspective on what makes the National Park so special.

Claire Tester, Head of Strategic Planning

“I joined the National Park in 2022 from the High Weald National Landscape because I wanted to continue working in a protected landscape in this area, but with more influence over planning decisions. I started in a development management role in the Lewes part of the Park and then 3 years ago moved in to my current role leading the planning policy team, including working on the new Local Plan for the National Park.  It has been an amazing opportunity to use my planning skills in an area with a strong focus on nature, landscape and cultural heritage of the area, combining my profession with my personal interests.”

We are proud to announce that Claire has recently been recognised within The Planner’s Women of Influence list for 2026. Claire has been acknowledged as one of the most most influential women in and around planning due to her impact and work over the last year. Congratulations Claire!

Kate Drake, Health and Wellbeing Officer

“My job is the best.  Being outside in nature within the National Park, working with groups of people who would not normally access SDNP and showing them ways of connecting and feeling the awe and wonder of green spaces.  How lucky am I?”

Anooshka Rawden, Cultural Heritage Strategic Lead

“Not only do I get to work with amazing colleagues, including women in leadership who are role models for the future, but I get to be part of a story that’s been in the making for thousands of years. I also get to work to my values – in the 1940s, Britain saw the founding of National Parks, but also the NHS and Arts Council England, as part of a wave of national restoration. Health, creativity, nature and culture were felt to be integral to human wellbeing, and National Parks represent all those things.”

Kirsty Murray, Public Engagement Ranger

“I’ve enjoyed spending time in the National Park for many years, walking, cycling and learning about the heritage of this landscape.  I wanted to be part of preserving and enhancing it for future generations and to give something back to a place that has given me so much. Since volunteering for the South Downs National Park, and now as a member of staff, I have always felt at home here, it’s such a welcoming and inclusive space and I love extending that welcome to the people I interact with everyday.”

Kirsten Fewings, Business Administration Apprentice

“I am privileged to work for the South Downs National Park Authority. I have always loved exploring the South Downs and I wanted to be able to give something back. My role, in particular, is a great place to be able to not only learn new things about the National Park, but share my own knowledge and passion for the work we do as an organisation. In a climate where conservation is so crucial, it’s a real honour to be able to contribute to that.”