Drew Wilson
Global environmental nonprofit The Nature Conservancy has selected Jennifer Morris to serve as its next CEO.
“The TNC community set a bold vision for the organization’s next leader, and we are excited to have found that leader in Jennifer,” said Fran Ulmer, Chair of TNC’s global Board of Directors. “Jennifer will bring to TNC the proven management skills, passion for conservation, global perspective, and inclusive, collaborative leadership style that will propel our team and our partners to even greater impact in achieving our mission.
Morris is the current president of Conservation International and has spent her 25-year career working to protect the environment.
“I am honored, energized, and inspired by the opportunity to work with The Nature Conservancy’s passionate and committed team to build on their tremendous legacy of conservation leadership,” Morris said. “Twenty-five years ago, I set out to build a career dedicated to protecting nature and bettering the lives of all who depend on it, and I can think of no better place than TNC to continue on that journey.
“TNC’s world-class programs, vast network of dedicated volunteers and supporters, and track record of well-respected science and innovative partnerships is what the world needs now more than ever to build a brighter future for both people and the planet.”
Morris joined Conservation International in 1998. Across the positions she held during her tenure, she led Conservation International’s work with corporations, headed its Ecosystem Finance Division, and developed programs and partnerships with groups ranging from indigenous communities to global corporation to multilateral finance institutions.
She was named the organization’s president in 2017. Prior to joining Conservation International, Morris was a business development consultant with Women’s World Banking.
Morris will report to the TNC’s Arlington, Va., headquarters for her first day on May 18. Interim CEO Sally Jewell will hold down the fort until then.
“Over the past year I have been inspired by the deep commitment of my TNC colleagues, our volunteers, supporters and partners, to creating a future where people and nature thrive and I am confident that Jennifer is the right person to lead the organization at this pivotal time,” Jewell said.
“Jennifer’s global perspective, deep conservation experience, and reputation as an inspiring and fun leader makes her ideally suited to shape the next chapter in TNC’s 69-year history. As I continue my role on TNC’s board of directors, I look forward to working closely with Jennifer and her team to nurture this great organization at a time when our planet needs us most.”
Temperince Morgan, Executive Director, The Nature Conservancy in Florida, added, “We are excited that Jennifer is joining our TNC family as CEO. Her depth of experience, passion for conserving nature and commitment to improving the lives of communities is exactly what our organization needs at this moment.
“Her steady hand, innovative approach and true hands on experience around the world will help guide us in these times of such unique and pressing challenges. We are confident that TNC will make even greater strides towards a future where people and nature thrive together under Jennifer’s leadership.”
