Introducing Mike Hakata
Cambridge is changing at a pace and scale unlike any other period in its modern history.
The decisions being made now, about development, nature recovery, and the character of our city and its surrounding landscape, will shape this region for generations. It’s precisely this moment that drew Mike Hakata to CPPF as its new Chief Executive.
Mike joins from Haringey Council, where he served as Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Climate Emergency. During his tenure he directed the borough’s conservation strategy, overseeing the protection of ancient woodlands, large-scale wildflower meadow planting, the designation of a new nature reserve, and eleven new Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation.
He also helped shaped Haringey’s local plan to strengthen ecological and land management policies, and led a partnership that grew annual tree planting from 300 to 2,500 trees.
What drew him to CPPF wasn’t just the role, but the mission. CPPF’s intersecting work across nature, heritage and place, protecting the landscapes we inherit, the buildings that carry our collective memory, and the green spaces that sustain communities, speaks directly to both his professional experience and his deeper convictions about what’s worth fighting for.
Mike takes over from James Littlewood, who steps down after nine years leading the charity, and assumes full CEO responsibilities from 15th June.
As CPPF approaches its centenary in 2028, Mike’s first commitment is to work with staff, volunteers, members and the wider community to shape the next chapter together.
Cambridge is at an inflection point, and the stakes for its green spaces, heritage and surrounding landscape have never been higher.
Mike joins an organisation in strong shape, with deep local roots, and nearly a century of achievement behind it, and he is determined to make sure that foundation carries CPPF’s voice further than ever in the decisions that will define this city’s future.
You can read James Littlewoods’ reflections on the last decade HERE
