Johann Besserer, PhD

Founder and Executive Director

Why IOI:

Cause I started it.  See my story for how it all began…

My IOI role:

I am the Founder and Executive Director of IOI. I provide strategic direction and have fiscal and financial oversight of the organization. As Executive Director I have the mandate to handle, manage, and develop all aspects of our business operations, as well as advocating for IOI on a national and international level. Concretely, I oversee IOI’s research, educational, and outreach programs, and administer the respective funding for such operations.

Life prior to IOI:

Before I came to IOI my life was slightly eclectic. Being born and raised in land-locked Germany, I developed a passion for the ocean during an exchange year in high school to the Florida Keys. Upon my return to Germany and a gap year with the Red Cross, I worked as a Paramedic for 3 years to finance my college education. With a degree International Business Administration, I worked at VW headquarters as a consultant. It only took me two years to figure out that my passion for the ocean did not allow me to stay in a corporate office job.

So I went to the University of Miami to get a Masters in Marine Policy. During my studies I went on a summer abroad adventure in the Galapagos Islands – which ultimately let to the creation of IOI.
After 7 years in Galapagos I went back to Miami to get a PhD in Marine Ecosystems and Society. Since, I have taught in various university programs as guest lecturer or adjunct faculty for sustainable development and ecotourism and I currently live on a sustainable farm in Hawaii.

Just me:

I am just a normal guy that likes to surf, eat, and travel. Now that I have a farm and a baby, also, I have traded-in time, travel, and surfing for a belly, but the eating is still good :)
Whereas some might call me adventurous by nature, all I ever wanted was to make a difference in the world. I believe this power is within each and every one of us. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to try and live such dream.