The Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) Board of Trustees has appointed Dr Carly Cowell as its new Secretary General. Dr Cowell will officially assume the role on 1st May 2026.

Dr Cowell has been part of the BGCI team for several years and brings extensive experience in horticulture, plant conservation, international collaboration, and strengthening partnerships across BGCI’s global network of botanic gardens. A plant conservation scientist by training, her work has focused on advancing both in situ conservation of threatened plant species in their natural habitats and ex situ conservation through botanic gardens and seed banks, helping to strengthen the link between science, policy, and practical conservation action.

Dr Cowell was born in Durban, South Africa, and has held several positions in the conservation sector before joining BGCI, including with the South African National Biodiversity Institute at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, the South African National Parks and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. She holds a PhD in plant conservation from the University of Cape Town and has over 20 years of experience in saving plant species.

Dr Peter Wyse Jackson, Chair of the BGCI Board of Trustees, said:

“Carly brings deep knowledge of BGCI and strong leadership experience. The Board is confident she will guide BGCI successfully as it continues to support botanic gardens worldwide in tackling the biodiversity crisis.”

BGCI represents a global network of botanic gardens working together to secure plant diversity for the wellbeing of people and the planet. To support a smooth transition, there will be a handover period during which certain actions and responsibilities will begin to transfer ahead of May we will keep members updated as this progresses.