US Forest Service Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

US Forest Service has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, organizational operations, civil rights compliance, and executive support.

Committed to sustainable land management, US Forest Service advances scientific research and conservation efforts to protect natural resources while ensuring public access and ecological health across diverse landscapes.

Leadership Roles at US Forest Service

  • Chief Information Officer - Douglas Nash
  • Chief of Staff - Lisa Freedman
  • Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights - Ericka Thomas
  • Acting Deputy Chief of Staff - Melissa Jenkins
  • Douglas Nash - Chief Information Officer

    Douglas Nash, the Chief Information Officer at US Forest Service, directs the digital infrastructure and data management systems supporting federal land conservation. The Chief Information Officer architects secure cloud environments and advanced analytical platforms that enable forestry specialists to monitor watershed health and climate adaptation metrics. By modernizing internal communication networks, Nash facilitates seamless collaboration between regional offices and national research centers. This leadership role involves implementing robust cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive environmental data and public records. Through the deployment of geospatial mapping tools, the Chief Information Officer enhances the agency's ability to track fire management patterns and resource utilization across vast national territories. Douglas Nash ensures that technological investments align with the broader mission of sustainable resource management. By optimizing digital workflows, Nash drives operational efficiency, allowing the agency to address complex environmental challenges with precision and data-driven insights.

    Lisa Freedman - Chief of Staff

    Lisa Freedman, the Chief of Staff at US Forest Service, coordinates strategic initiatives and operational priorities across the federal agency. The Chief of Staff manages the flow of information between executive leadership and departmental heads to ensure alignment with national conservation mandates. By overseeing administrative processes, Freedman streamlines decision-making regarding timber management, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreational access. This role involves facilitating high-level partnerships with governmental entities and community stakeholders to advance collaborative land management goals. Lisa Freedman monitors the execution of agency-wide policies, ensuring that scientific research informs practical field operations. Through the integration of diverse departmental objectives, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational focus on long-term ecological integrity and public service. Freedman drives the implementation of complex projects, balancing economic resource access with the protection of public health and natural landscapes throughout the nation.

    Ericka Thomas - Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights

    Ericka Thomas, the Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights at US Forest Service, directs equity initiatives and compliance programs within the federal agency. The Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights architects frameworks that ensure fair access to employment and public services across all regional operations. By monitoring organizational policies, Thomas guarantees adherence to federal mandates regarding non-discrimination and inclusive land management practices. This leadership role involves resolving complex internal grievances and fostering a culture of accountability throughout the workforce. Ericka Thomas collaborates with human resources and executive leadership to implement training programs that promote diversity in forestry, hydrology, and ecological research disciplines. Through the oversight of civil rights investigations, the Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights protects the integrity of the agency's mission. Thomas drives systemic improvements that support a professional environment, ensuring that all stakeholders receive equitable treatment during resource utilization and recreational planning.

    Melissa Jenkins - Acting Deputy Chief of Staff

    Melissa Jenkins, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff at US Forest Service, supports the execution of administrative functions and operational oversight for the federal agency. The Acting Deputy Chief of Staff assists in the coordination of fire management strategies, trail maintenance programs, and research initiatives that span national landscapes. By managing daily workflows, Jenkins ensures that departmental objectives remain synchronized with the agency's overarching mission of sustainable resource management. This role involves preparing briefing materials for executive leadership and facilitating communication across various internal divisions. Melissa Jenkins monitors the progress of critical projects, providing the necessary support to maintain efficiency in watershed protection and wildlife conservation efforts. Through the analysis of operational data, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff identifies opportunities for process improvement. Jenkins drives the successful delivery of agency services, ensuring that field operations effectively balance economic activity with the preservation of ecological health.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding US Forest Service Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads US Forest Service?
    US Forest Service is led by Douglas Nash (Chief Information Officer), along with executives such as Lisa Freedman (Chief of Staff) and Ericka Thomas (Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights).
    Who is part of US Forest Service’s executive team?
    The executive team of US Forest Service includes leaders such as Douglas Nash (Chief Information Officer), Lisa Freedman (Chief of Staff), Ericka Thomas (Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does US Forest Service have?
    US Forest Service has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in US Forest Service’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of US Forest Service includes roles such as Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff - Office of Civil Rights, Acting Deputy Chief of Staff.