Aimee Pitcher

Cape Sanctuary is a privately owned and operated wildlife sanctuary incorporating farming, forestry and tourism in a conservation setting. I was recruited as staff in September 2021 during my three-month internship. By 2022 I was promoted to predator control manager, tasked with the improvement of an extensive trapping/bait-station network and the establishment of a volunteer rotation. In May 2023, I was appointed as Acting Manager responsible for all avenues of operation including staffing, marketing, budgeting, health and safety, predator control, tourism operation, volunteer co-ordination and animal welfare.

• Experienced in planning staff, volunteers and contractors' daily tasking.
• Extensive knowledge of New Zealand native wildlife.
• Ability to balance fieldwork and administrative duties.
• Proven communication through working with landowners, government agencies, onsite entities, volunteers and Māori.

Worked in a ski-town restaurant and bar with a range of clientele from truck drivers, skiers and locals.

• Ability to engage with a broad range of people and contribute to a positive atmosphere.
• Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.

Worked as a barista and attendant on New Zealand's largest commercial ski field.

• Elevated guest experience through genuine engagement and willingness to assist with a range of requests.
• Ensured quality of service and products during periods of increased demand.

Monitored over 1,500ha of squash crops across Hawke's Bay to determine crop health, potential yield and harvest date.

• Improved efficiency in the department by streamlining documentation processes for accurate record-keeping.
• Proven ability to work independently for long hours (10+) outdoors in harsh conditions. Maximised yield through accurate measurement and prediction of harvest dates.