Principal Consultant · Co-Founder
Dr Patrick Gilmour
Evaluation specialist with more than 15 years experience undertaking research and evaluation with a particular focus on the environment. Coming from a background in ecology and a PhD exploring collaborative approaches to natural resource management, Patrick is adept at navigating the ecological-evaluation nexus.
Professional background
Patrick is an evaluation specialist with more than 15 years experience undertaking research and evaluation with a particular focus on the environment. Coming from a background in ecology, and a PhD exploring collaborative approaches to the management of natural resources, Patrick is adept at navigating the ecological-evaluation nexus.
Career Journey
Patrick has led more than 50 evaluations of large-scale environmental programs implemented in complex contexts. He has worked extensively with agencies in NSW including the Natural Resources Commission, the Environmental Trust, Local Land Services, and government departments. His passion for quality work is balanced with a pragmatic view of what is reasonable and feasible. This has resulted in a reputation for reliability and beneficial work across those Patrick has worked with.
Approach and Expertise
Patrick's speciality is the development of fit-for-purpose evaluation processes - particularly the creation and use of data collection tools that are both implementable and useful. Patrick has undertaken evaluations of dozens of grant programs, and is well versed in the diverse needs or organisations and projects 'doing' the work on-ground.
Specialisations
Patrick brings advanced evaluative conceptual skills, data analysis, and reporting capabilities with extensive experience operating at the intersection of the environment and environmental evaluations. He has in-depth understanding of environmental programming, particularly in NSW, and extensive experience in complex, multi-level evaluations.
Areas of expertise
Patrick's expertise spans environmental evaluation, ecological research, and natural resource management, with particular focus on complex programs requiring innovative and collaborative approaches.
Evaluation and Research
- Environmental Program Evaluation: Leading evaluations of large-scale environmental programs across diverse contexts including biodiversity, natural resource management and agriculture
- Ecological Research Methods: Advanced capability in ecological research intersections with evaluation methodology
- Complex Multi-level Evaluations: Expertise in navigating complex program evaluations implemented across multiple stakeholders and jurisdictions
- Framework Development: Specialist in developing evaluation frameworks, program logic, and theory of change models
Environmental Specialisations
- Natural Resource Management: Deep understanding of collaborative approaches to natural resource management systems
- Biodiversity Conservation: Expertise in forest monitoring, marine biodiversity, and conservation program evaluation
- Pest and Weed Management: Extensive experience evaluating pest control programs, including feral deer and blackberry management
- Climate Change Programs: Experience with climate adaptation and sustainability program evaluation
Technical Skills
- Advanced evaluation design and implementation methodologies
- Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
- Stakeholder consultation and engagement processes
- Grant program evaluation and review
- Environmental monitoring and impact assessment
- Policy analysis and evidence-based decision making
Collaborative Approaches
- Stakeholder Engagement: Extensive experience in designing and facilitating meaningful engagement processes with diverse stakeholder groups
- Participatory Research: Skills in implementing community-based research approaches that centre local knowledge and perspectives
- Collaborative Governance: Understanding of collaborative approaches to environmental management and decision-making processes
- Capacity Building: Experience in building evaluative capabilities and supporting organizational learning and development
Education & qualifications
PhD exploring collaborative approaches to the management of natural resources, providing deep understanding of the social dimensions of environmental management and stakeholder engagement.
Initially trained as a marine ecologist, providing strong foundation in ecological principles, research methods, and environmental systems understanding.