OATA appoints new scientific support officer
Leigh-Marie Hobday joins from Coral Centre to support research and training programmes
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The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA) has appointed Leigh-Marie Hobday as scientific support officer.
Hobday joins from the Coral Centre, where she was operations and propagation manager. She previously worked as a marine invertebrate taxonomist, studying the health of UK waters.
A graduate of the University of Portsmouth, Hobday holds a BSc (Hons) in marine environmental science and an MSc in applied aquatic biology.
In her new role, she will support OATA’s scientific and technical adviser, Emily Maunder, with research, analysis and evaluation on a range of issues affecting the ornamental aquatic industry.
She will also assist in delivering the trade body’s City and Guilds-accredited training programmes.
Outside of work, Hobday volunteers with local beach clean-up initiatives, delivers community education on ocean life and contributes to an oyster restoration project.
Dr Matthew Bond, OATA chief executive, said: “Leigh-Marie has a strong background in a retail environment, particularly working with corals and marine invertebrates, which will bring valuable expertise to the team. Her arrival completes the OATA team after a period of staff changes.”
Hobday added: “This is a great opportunity to use my previous experience to support an industry that has been part of my professional and personal life for many years.
