Inspired by the sea: Meet James Harding and Michael Thompson
James Harding (left) Michael Thompson (right)
Demand for sustainable coastal and marine development is growing, bringing a more complex set of challenges for those working to balance infrastructure, environmental protection and the needs of marine ecosystems. At NIRAS, the Marine Environment team supports clients in navigating these pressures while helping to protect biodiversity and natural habitats. In this interview, Associate Directors in the UK marine environment team, James Harding and Michael Thompson share how their early interest in the marine world has shaped their careers, the realities of working on complex coastal and marine projects, and what led them to choose NIRAS as the next step in their careers.
A fascination with the marine world
For James, the interest started close to home.
“I grew up by the sea and at a very young age was inspired by the old Jacques Cousteau and David Attenborough documentaries illustrating life within it. My interest grew further and so I naturally progressed into this career.”
Michael’s path was driven by a fascination with how species adapt to challenging environments.
“I've always had an interest in the aquatic environment with a desire to understand how species are adapted to such a complex world. The marine environment is one of the most challenging both in terms of physicochemical conditions and diverse anthropogenic uses, so where better to apply my interests.”
“My focus is on expanding NIRAS’s capacity to deliver coastal projects and helping clients navigate complex licensing requirements while protecting the diverse ecosystems involved.”
Michael Thompson
Working on complex marine and coastal projects
The Marine Environment team works across a wide range of projects in the UK and internationally, supporting clients navigating complex coastal and marine environments.
“We have some exciting projects both in the UK and overseas,” says James. “I support the team with project direction and technical input. The strength of the team has huge potential, and we are working with clients tackling challenging projects across several sectors.”
Michael also contributes to the team’s coastal work, helping clients manage the environmental considerations that come with marine development.
“My focus is on expanding NIRAS’s capacity to deliver coastal projects and helping clients navigate complex licensing requirements while protecting the diverse ecosystems involved.”
“NIRAS has an excellent industry reputation, and its focus on nature positive solutions is very well aligned with where I want to take my career.”
James Harding
Why NIRAS
Both were attracted to NIRAS because of the opportunity to work on technically strong projects while contributing to responsible environmental solutions.
“NIRAS has an excellent industry reputation, and its focus on nature positive solutions is very well aligned with where I want to take my career,” says James.
For Michael, the company’s culture and autonomy were key factors.
“NIRAS appealed because of its strong sense of autonomy and the high calibre projects it delivers. It is an ideal place to continue my work in solving the challenges of the complex marine environment.”
Outside the office
When he is not working, James enjoys spending time with his family and getting out on the water whenever possible.
“I’m a family man these days, which keeps me busy outside of work. When time allows, getting out on the water in some form is always a good weekend!”
Michael also spends time outdoors, combining wildlife watching and photography with martial arts training.
“Like most environmental scientists, I like wildlife watching and photography, occasionally even getting a chance to be a bit more hands on as pictured at this raptor and owl sanctuary. More recently though, I'm enjoying training for my red belt in Kuk Sool Won (a Korean martial art).”
If you would like to learn more about how we support projects across marine, coastal and wider environmental settings, or to discuss a specific challenge, our Environment and Ecology team would be happy to help. You can also follow our work to see how we are supporting clients in balancing development with the protection of natural environments.
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