Francisco Javier Bardalez

Operations and Enforcement Supervisor

Mr. Francisco Bardalez affectionally known as “Javi” is our Operations and Enforcement Supervisor. Born in the island of San Pedro, Javi attended San Pedro Roman Catholic school and then graduated from San Pedro High School as an Honor Student majoring in the Science field. Mr. Bardalez began his career in marine conservation in 2009 as a ranger for Hol Chan Marine Reserve stationed at the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve. He was then transferred to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve where he operated as a ranger for 1 year and then assigned as the Technical Assistant. As a Technical Assistant, Mr. Bardalez worked hand in hand with the Technical Manager to carry out monitoring and research of the reserve. 13 years later, Javi now leads the fundamental and most crucial department in our organization, Operations and Enforcement.

Emilie Gomez

Technical Supervisor

Meet Ms. Emilie Gomez, our Technical Supervisor at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering from the Instituto Tecnológico de Merida, Mexico, and a Master’s Degree in Engineering with a specialization in the Environment from la Universidad Autónoma de Yucatan, Mexico, Emilie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

In her capacity as Technical Supervisor, Emilie plays an integral part in the team that drives the success of Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Her responsibilities encompass the comprehensive oversight of the research and monitoring program, where she ensures the seamless integration of technical support into all management activities. Emilie is also at the forefront of securing grant funding and adeptly manages various projects critical to the reserve’s mission. Emilie is dedicated to ensuring that Hol Chan Marine Reserve achieves and exceeds its conservation objectives and commitments..

Ian Pou

Executive Chairman

Mr. Ian Renaldo Pou was born and raised in the island of San Pedro. Mr. Pou was appointed Chairman of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Board of Trustees in January of 2021 and later on assumed the post of Executive Chairman. He is no stranger to Hol Chan Marine Reserve as he was previously a part of our Hol Chan Family in the capacity of Marine Ranger and Fisheries Officer. As Executive Chairman, Mr. Pou sees the day-to-day operations and affairs of the organization. He maintains a firm line of communication with the board to ensure that the Management of Hol Chan Marine Reserve is in accordance with the established regulations.