Gwen Roberts

Gwen joined Operation Wallacea in 2008 as a finance assistant after eight years working in accountancy, starting in Uxbridge where she also completed her AAT qualification. What began as a behind-the-scenes role soon expanded to include time in the field: after two summers in the office, she headed to South Africa in 2010 as Opwall’s representative in Sodwana Bay, where she also completed her PADI Open Water. She was thrilled to return the following year and later helped set up operations in Akumal, Mexico, in 2012 and 2013.

Although she loved the chance to meet volunteers and schools on site, Gwen’s main role now keeps her office-based year-round, managing the finances for all Opwall offices worldwide. This includes coordinating payments to expedition partners, ensuring funds reach even the most remote project locations, and navigating the complexities of working in areas with limited resources.

Gwen is always on the lookout for ways to keep Opwall running as efficiently (and frugally!) as possible, ensuring more of our resources go directly into supporting research and conservation. Known for her approachable nature and great sense of humour, she has a knack for making even the driest financial details seem a little less daunting.