Technical specialisms:
Natural resource management
Community-based conservation
Sustainable livelihoods
I work on holistic solutions to conservation and rural development challenges, drawing on the latest research and evidence and local knowledge.
I hold a PhD (2018) in Geography from the University of Cambridge.
Experience
Independent Consulting (May 2022-current)
- Development of a 5-Year Strategy for the West Lunga Conservation Project, Zambia (2024)
- Compiled two UKAid grant applications for HelpAge International (2023)
- Formulated content for an online Community-Based Conservationist course for Learn Direct (2023)
Head of Project Development, WeForest, Independent consultant
(May 2022 – current)
I am developing a pipeline of high-quality forest landscape restoration projects that will attract corporate investment and sponsorship to deliver for people, nature, and climate.
Climate, Environment, and Livelihoods Lead, Zambia, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
(September 2020 – April 2022)
I lead the UK’s work to support action on climate change, build resilient livelihoods, and enhance biodiversity conservation in Zambia.
Livelihoods Adviser, Tanzania
UK Department for International Development
(March 2019 – September 2020)
Livelihoods Adviser, Agricultural Research Team
UK Department for International Development
(February 2018 – February 2019)
Publications
- Watts, N., and Scales, I.R. (2020) ‘Social impact investing, agriculture, and the financialization of development: Insights from sub-Saharan Africa’ World Development, 130.
- Watts, N., (2018) ‘It’s not fair’: Maize, money, and moral economies in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania.’ Journal of Political Ecology, 25: 1, pp. 279-291
- Watts, N., and Scales, I.R. (2015) ‘Seeds, agricultural systems and socio-natures: Towards an actor-network theory informed political ecology.’ Geography Compass, 9: 5.
NW Impact Consulting 