Theresia Ott PhD
South Africa
Occupational Information
Job Title: Chief Advisor, Nature Solutions. Rio Tinto
Professional History
Dr Theresia Ott is an accomplished sustainability leader. She relishes opportunities to apply her lateral thinking and problem-solving skills to the intersection of socio-economic and environmental challenges currently faced globally. With a doctorate in Natural Sciences and experience in both the civil society and business sides of environmental and natural resources management, Theresia is recognised as a values-driven expert in her field. As a respected business voice, she is frequently invited to speak and engage on topics relating to sustainability, particularly biodiversity, land management, and natural resource use at a variety of international forums facilitated by civil society organisations. Theresia is now supporting the development of nature-based solutions at Rio Tinto, using her influence in a variety of internal and external forums to challenge business-as-usual for a more inclusive economy. Prior to this role, she was Head of Environment also at Rio Tinto and before that, Principal Advisor, Group Environment.
Qualifications
MSc and PhD in Zoology, University of Pretoria
BSc & BSc Honours Zoology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Programme
2015 Archbishop Desmond Tutu Leadership Fellow
Additional Tags: Zoology, Change Management, Natural Sciences, Civil Society, Environmental and Natural Resources Management