Savannah Tree Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and growing Chatham County's urban forest, is excited to announce the launch of a national search for its next Executive Director. This pivotal leadership role offers a unique opportunity to guide the Foundation into its next chapter of growth and environmental impact.

For over four decades, Savannah Tree Foundation has been at the forefront of promoting the environmental, economic, and health benefits of a thriving urban forest in Chatham County. Through community engagement, education, and advocacy, the organization has planted and cared for nearly 6,000 trees, fostering a greener and healthier future for the Savannah region. The new Executive Director will have the chance to build on this legacy, driving forward the Foundation’s mission with fresh energy and innovative strategies.

“We are eager to find a dynamic leader who shares our passion for trees and community,” said Matthew Hallett, Board President of Savannah Tree Foundation. “This is a critical moment for our organization, and for our region, as we expand our efforts to plant more trees and combat canopy loss in Coastal Georgia. 

The next Executive Director will follow Zoe Rinker, who has led the organization since 2019. Under Rinker's leadership, the Foundation has increased tree planting and distribution efforts as well as launched several new programs, including an arboriculture apprenticeship and a community tree nursery. 

Rinker is pivoting to strategic consulting and plans to continue working in Savannah. "It was a bittersweet decision. Being a part of the Savannah Tree Foundation community has truly been a highlight of my career," Rinker shared, "I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to accomplish in the past five and a half years that I've had the privilege of leading this organization. We have positioned the Foundation as a strategic leader in regional sustainability efforts and built the infrastructure for organizational growth well into the future." During her tenure, Rinker spearheaded efforts to increase fundraising for the nonprofit, recently winning a $1 million four-year grant from the Georgia Forestry Commission to support new programming efforts.  

"We are very thankful to Zoe for her vision and hard work for the past five years" commended Hallett. "She has built out an incredible staff that I am confident will continue the great work of the Foundation through the executive search process and beyond."

 Savannah Tree Foundation's Board of Directors has convened a search committee that will lead the recruitment process. Interested candidates can find the full job description and application details on Savannah Tree Foundation’s website at savannahtree.org/careers. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with a priority deadline of January 31, 2025.