Dr Stuart has been an integral part of IUCN and a pillar of the Union’s renowned work on species conservation. He started work on the African Bird Red Data Book in 1983 before joining the Secretariat in 1986. During his tenure, Dr Stuart headed IUCN's Species Programme, served as Acting Director General and led the Biodiversity Assessment Unit. Dr Stuart has been Chair of the SSC since 2008 and has now served two terms in this prominent position, the maximum allowed by IUCN Statutes.

Inger Andersen, Director General of IUCN, says: “Simon has been a central figure and major shaper of IUCN over these past 30 years. It is difficult to overstate his contribution and dedication to the Union and its mission. We wish him every success in his new role and look forward to a continued close collaboration.”

Dr Stuart will take on his new role at Synchronicity Earth in January 2017. He will be working on a new initiative which seeks to reduce extinction rates and help promote the recovery of threatened species, thus continuing his lifelong commitment to nature conservation. Adam and Jessica Sweidan, founders of Synchronicity Earth in 2009, are IUCN Patrons of Nature.