Tetiaroa Atoll, French Polynesia – July 17, 2025 – Tetiaroa Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and understanding of Tetiaroa, is proud to announce the appointment of Tj Tate as its new Chief Executive Officer. An award-winning conservation leader and seasoned storyteller, Tate brings a transformative vision and unparalleled expertise to her new role.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tj Tate as the new Chief Executive Officer of Tetiaroa Society,” says Richard Bailey, founder and chairman. “Her proven leadership in ocean conservation, deep understanding of the challenges facing marine ecosystems, and unwavering commitment to building collaborative solutions make her uniquely suited to guide our mission forward. Tj’s ability to bridge science, community, and industry will be instrumental in advancing Tetiaroa Society’s role as a global model for island sustainability. We are confident that under her leadership, the Society will continue to innovate and inspire, ensuring Tetiaroa remains both a sanctuary and a catalyst for ocean resilience around the world.”
Tate has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between science, industry, and communities to foster sustainable solutions for ocean health. Her extensive experience includes serving as the Director of Conservation for the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, where she led innovative programs safeguarding vital marine habitats and species within America's underwater national parks. Prior to that, as Director of Seafood Sustainability for the National Aquarium, she developed groundbreaking consumer awareness campaigns that engaged a diverse range of stakeholders, including retailers, fishers, growers, consumers, and millions of annual visitors.
Her industry expertise is equally robust, highlighted by her tenure as Executive Director for a commercial fishing organization spanning the entire Gulf region. She also founded Gulf Wild, the first brand of responsibly harvested and traceable wild-caught fish from the Gulf of Mexico. Earlier in her career, Tate served as Vice President of Operations for a Florida-based environmental consulting firm specializing in endangered species protection and wetland mitigation.
"Islands are our planet's most precious laboratories for understanding resilience in the face of global change," said Tj Tate.
"It is my honor to step into the role of CEO for the Tetiaroa Society and work alongside a tremendous team in continued efforts to protect and preserve this special place. At Tetiaroa Society, we're not just protecting a single atoll—we're pioneering solutions that can safeguard island and coastal communities worldwide. By weaving together traditional wisdom, cutting-edge science, and innovative conservation practices, we're creating a blueprint for how humanity can live in harmony with our ocean planet. Today's work will determine whether future generations inherit thriving marine ecosystems or empty seas."
Tj is driven by her conviction that empowering communities with the right tools, investments, and partnerships is crucial for protecting our blue planet. Her leadership is expected to significantly advance Tetiaroa Society's mission to inspire and educate the world about sustainable living through the study and preservation of Tetiaroa.
