Fathima I. Iftikar

Fathima I. Iftikar has a diverse work experience. Fathima I. started their career at CN Tower as a Customer Service Representative from 2003 to 2005. Fathima I. then worked as a Research Consultant at McMaster University from 2008 to 2009. Fathima pursued their PhD at The University of Auckland, where they also held the position of Senior Tutor/Demonstrator from 2010 to 2014. During their PhD, they conducted research on the impacts of climate change on ectotherm physiology and gained skills in data analysis, communication, and team collaboration. Fathima joined the Department of Conservation (DOC) in 2014, where they held various roles including Delivery (biodiversity) Planner, Workflow Manager, Manager of the Terrestrial Ecosystems Unit, and Director of Terrestrial Science (on secondment). Fathima I. provided strategic leadership and support to ensure conservation science and policies were directed towards better outcomes. In 2020, Fathima moved to the Ministry for the Environment as Manager of Strategy and Policy Innovation, and later became the Director of OCE and Stewardship Strategy. Currently, Fathima is the Director of Strategy, Policy & Regulation at the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Fathima I. Iftikar obtained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours degree in Biology from McMaster University in 2006. Fathima I. then pursued a Study Abroad Program in Biochemistry at the University of Leeds in 2005-2006. Fathima went on to complete a Master of Science (MS) degree in Environmental Physiology at McMaster University from 2006 to 2008. Fathima I. further pursued their education and received a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Environmental Biology from The University of Auckland from 2009 to 2013. Additionally, Fathima holds certifications including an Open Water Diver certification from PADI obtained in 2009 and a National Certificate in Project Management (Level 4) from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.