During our discussions on this subject, Oliver informed us that he could not commit to the years necessary to implement the next stage, and it would be better that a successor, who would lead this, should be involved in its development.

“We understood his position and Oliver will leave the organisation on the 11th December with our thanks and best wishes for the future.

“Kevin, who has stood down as a Trustee of Durrell, will develop and start the implementation of our renewed strategy.”

Oliver Johnson said: "I have enjoyed my time at Durrell very much and am proud of what has been accomplished. We published the Durrell Index, incontrovertible proof that Durrell has indeed saved species. We reached out to more people in more countries through our training programmes. It is now time for me to hand the baton on."

Mr Keen was born and raised in Jersey and has gained over 40 years experience of working on the Island. Roles have included Finance Director of Le Riche Group, Managing Director of Le Riche’s Stores, Managing Director of Jersey Dairy, Chairman of Jersey Water and until July 2014 Chief Executive of Jersey Post.

Since then he has been providing interim management and consultation services to organisations in Jersey as well as holding non-executive director positions to a number of Jersey companies and an independent director of St John’s Ambulance in Jersey.

He is a Chartered Director, Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and Fellow of both the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.