Dr. Paul Salaman has made significant contributions to the field of international nature conservation, driven by a lifelong passion for wildlife that began with an inspiring encounter with Sir David Attenborough when he was eight years old. As the President of Conservation Allies, Paul advances science-based conservation actions for the most Threatened species and imperiled Protected Areas across the tropics.

As a teenager, Paul was managing a nature reserve in the UK and at university in the 90s he led biodiversity expeditions across Colombia that culminated in the creation of a network of protected areas for endangered species amidst a challenging period of armed conflict. After graduating with a Ph.D. from the University of Oxford, Paul worked in leadership positions at The Natural History Museum, Conservation International, Rainforest Trust, and the Galapagos Conservancy.

Paul has been active in IUCN for over 15 years, including helping establish the IUCN US National Committee, supporting conservation NGOs across the global south to become IUCN members, and formerly a Board Director and the Treasurer of IUCN-US (2015-2022). Paul is honored to serve as Chair of IUCN-US and looks forward to supporting the critical mission of IUCN and its outstanding team of experienced staff.