Marc Shellard

Marine Biologist and Educator

“Every time I see the spark of curiosity ignite in someone’s eyes, I know I’ve done my job. Inspiring others to get involved in marine conservation isn’t just a benefit - it’s the heart of my work. By educating and engaging the next generation, we build a community of passionate advocates ready to protect our oceans for years to come.”

Four Seasons Tenure

Since 2024
First Four Seasons Assignment: Current

Employment History

Open Ocean Project, Egypt; Velaa Private Island, Maldives; KAUST, Saudi Arabia

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology from The University of Southampton, UK

Birthplace

London, United Kingdom

Languages Spoken

English, French

Born in London and raised in Bishop’s Stortford, Marc Shellard showed an early aptitude for math and science. Learning about climate change in geography class inspired him to pursue a profession that positively impacts the environment. As a fan of David Attenborough and an explorer of coastal environments in Perpignan, France, Marc was naturally drawn to marine biology. At 16, Marc began saving to volunteer on coral restoration programs in Africa and Asia, gaining practical experience. He completed marine conservation programs in Tanzania and Cambodia before studying Marine Biology at The University of Southampton. While earning his Bachelor’s degree, he received a scholarship to study coral reef ecology at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, where he learned coral and reef fish identification, coral restoration, and invasive species analysis. This was followed by a research project in the Galapagos studying invasive algal species. Marc then researched Red Sea turtles for KAUST in Saudi Arabia, then later transitioned from institutional research to a large coral restoration program in the Maldives, gaining experience in a resort environment. He then travelled around South and Central America, became a PADI dive instructor in Honduras, and worked as a Resident Marine Biologist at the Open Ocean Science Centre in El Qosier, Egypt, before joining the WiseOceans team at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. Marc speaks English fluently and has an excellent understanding of French. In his spare time, he enjoys diving, watching films, and listening to music.