Executive Transition FAQ
No! In November of 2011, Cook Inletkeeper hired Wayne Jenkins as the new the Executive Director. Former Executive Director, Bob Shavelson, took a lateral step into an full-time advocacy roll with the title “Inletkeeper,” where he will focus his full attention on the pollution and policy issues facing Cook Inlet communities.
How will Bob and Wayne divide their time and responsibilities?
Bob will lead Cook Inletkeeper’s advocacy and organizing work, including work on energy, infrastructure, beluga whale and pollution issues. Wayne will oversee and manage staff on the non-advocacy side of the organization (i.e., salmon stream and climate, clean boating and harbors, safe drinking water, electronics recycling, etc), and will grow into a central role helping the organization cultivate its relationships with members, donors and supporters.
Why is Cook Inletkeeper making this change?
Cook Inletkeeper decided to undertake this transition for two reasons. First, the pollution and policy issues facing Cook Inlet communities have grown in number and complexity. By sharing duties with Wayne, Bob will be able to focus more of his energy on the many issues threatening our fisheries and the people who rely on them. We will retain Bob’s knowledge and experience, freeing him up to create an even stronger advocacy presence for Cook Inletkeeper.
Second, as Cook Inletkeeper has grown, so too have the duties and responsibilities placed on the Executive Director. Bob has been the organization’s Executive Director AND its lead advocate for over 16 years. As a result, a shared-management structure will spread the work load, emphasize the respective strengths Wayne and Bob bring to the table, and position Cook Inletkeeper as a more stable, sustainable and effective organization.
How is Cook Inletkeeper managing such an important transition?The Board and staff recognize the many challenges posed by an organizational transition of this magnitude, and as a result, we enlisted the aid of Jim Abernathy, a seasoned professional who guided us through the Executive Director search, hiring and transition process. Jim will remain engaged as we implement our transition plan until at least May 2012, at which time we’ll re-assess our transition needs.
Who is Wayne Jenkins?Wayne comes to us with a strong management background, a great demeanor and a passion and philosophy that closely match our organization. Learn more about Wayne here.
Questions or comments?
Feel free to contact Bob Shavelson or Wayne Jenkins with any questions or concerns.
This transition will pave the way for a stronger, smarter and more effective organization in the months and years ahead.
