For immediate release
Friday, December 16, 2016
Contact: Jeremy Cluchey, Director of Communications
jcluchey@maineaudubon.org
207-781-2330 x222
Ole Amundsen III has announced that he will be leaving his role as Executive Director of Maine Audubon in January 2017, a decision he called “very difficult, but the right move for me and my family at a busy time.”
Ole joined Maine Audubon in early 2016, bringing strong experience in landscape-scale conservation, environmental education, and finance. During his tenure, he oversaw a critical financial review process, a detailed legal review of Maine Audubon’s approach to contracts, a focus on planning and restoration efforts at Maine Audubon’s sanctuaries, and important upgrades to internal systems and processes.
Following Ole’s decision, the Board of Trustees announced that Deputy Director Andy Beahm – himself a former board member and chair – will step into the role of Acting Director. Andy recently joined Maine Audubon’s staff after 34 years at L.L. Bean, where he served in various executive roles including Assistant Treasurer, Director of Strategic Planning, and Vice President of Business Transformation. Andy has also been involved in a leadership capacity with a range of Maine nonprofits, including Portland Nordic, Greater Portland Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and the Cancer Community Center, where he currently chairs the board.
The Board also shared its intention to begin a full search for Maine Audubon’s next Executive Director in the new year.
“Many leaders have made important and valuable contributions to Maine Audubon over its 173-year history,” said Jerry King, president of the Board of Trustees. “Ole has earned his place among their ranks, and the Board thanks him for his service. We are fortunate to have Andy ready and well-prepared to step in, and we look forward to working with him and the dedicated Maine Audubon staff on the important work ahead.”
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Maine Audubon is building a culture of stewardship for Maine’s wildlife and habitat. We connect Maine people to nature through a science-based approach to conservation, education, and advocacy. The largest Maine-based wildlife conservation organization, Maine Audubon has eight centers and wildlife sanctuaries and serves over 50,000 people annually.
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