US Forest Service Executive and Leadership Team

Lisa Freedman, the Chief of Staff at US Forest Service, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the agency. Freedman oversees the coordination of departmental efforts, ensuring that the agency's complex mandates for conservation, recreation, and resource utilization are met with sophisticated planning. This leadership role involves translating high-level agency objectives into actionable plans for various divisions, fostering collaboration between scientific research, land management practices, and stakeholder engagement. Freedman's focus centers on enhancing the agency's capacity to address environmental challenges and maintain productive landscapes. By guiding the implementation of evidence-based strategies, Freedman supports the agency's mission to manage natural resources sustainably. The Chief of Staff ensures that the agency's operations, from timber management to watershed protection, adhere to scientific rigor and decades of accumulated expertise. Lisa Freedman drives the efficient execution of policies that protect ecological integrity and public health while facilitating economic activity through responsible resource access.

Douglas Nash, the Chief Information Officer at US Forest Service, architects and executes the agency's comprehensive information technology strategy. Nash directs the development and maintenance of robust digital infrastructure, essential for managing vast natural resources and supporting diverse operational needs across the nation. This leadership position involves ensuring that advanced technological solutions enhance the agency's capacity for scientific research, land management, and decision-making. Nash's responsibilities include overseeing data management, cybersecurity, and the implementation of innovative systems that support forestry, ecology, and hydrology specialists. The Chief Information Officer plays a critical part in enabling the agency to address contemporary issues such as forest health, watershed protection, and climate adaptation through data-driven insights. Douglas Nash ensures that technological resources are optimized to support sustainable resource management and facilitate efficient operations, including fire management and research initiatives. By advancing the agency's digital capabilities, Nash strengthens its ability to provide comprehensive services and maintain productive landscapes.

Melissa Jenkins, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff at US Forest Service, supports the Chief of Staff in driving strategic execution and operational oversight. Jenkins assists in coordinating cross-functional initiatives, ensuring seamless integration of conservation objectives, recreational access, and resource utilization mandates. This role involves facilitating communication and collaboration among various departments, thereby strengthening the agency's ability to address complex environmental challenges. The Acting Deputy Chief of Staff contributes to the development and implementation of evidence-based strategies derived from scientific research and land management practices. Melissa Jenkins focuses on enhancing the agency's operational efficiency and its capacity to manage productive landscapes that serve diverse stakeholder interests. By supporting the Chief of Staff, Jenkins helps ensure that the agency's work, encompassing everything from timber management to watershed protection, is guided by expertise and a commitment to sustainable resource management. This leadership function is vital for maintaining the agency's effectiveness in protecting ecological integrity and public health.

Ericka Thomas, the Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights at US Forest Service, directs the agency's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across all operations. Thomas oversees the implementation of policies and programs designed to ensure fair treatment and equal opportunity for all employees and stakeholders. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the agency's dedication to managing natural resources for the benefit of diverse communities. The Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights works to integrate civil rights principles into land management practices, conservation efforts, and recreational access initiatives. Ericka Thomas ensures that the agency's operational framework supports its mandates while upholding the highest standards of fairness and respect. By championing civil rights, Thomas contributes to the agency's ability to address complex environmental and social challenges effectively. This strategic focus strengthens the agency's partnerships with communities and governmental entities, reinforcing its role in protecting ecological integrity and public health through equitable practices.