Tallahassee, FL (April 14, 2026) – The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida has appointed Nick Wiley as its new Executive Director, ushering in a new chapter of conservation leadership for one of the state’s largest conservation nonprofits.
Wiley brings more than three decades of experience in wildlife conservation, public service and nonprofit management to the role. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer for Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Before that, he spent 30 years with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), where he rose from field biologist to Executive Director, a position he held for eight years.
“We are excited to welcome Nick Wiley to the Foundation at such an important time for our organization,” said Board Chair Laura Russell. “He has a remarkable depth of experience, a strong sense of purpose and a clear appreciation for the role this Foundation can play in supporting FWC and our other partners across the state. We are looking forward to all that his leadership will mean for our future.”
Throughout his career, Wiley has been recognized as a strong advocate for connecting people with the outdoors through expanded opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. His background combines scientific expertise with executive leadership and a long record of collaboration, public engagement and stewardship of Florida’s natural resources.
Wiley also brings broad credibility across the conservation field. He is a fellow of the National Conservation Leadership Institute, a past president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and has served on several boards, including the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, the Council to Advance Hunting and Shooting Sports and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.
“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to join our Foundation team and work with FWC and Florida’s conservation community to steward and protect the state’s remarkable fish and wildlife resources, natural assets that are essential for Florida’s outdoor traditions, economy and quality of life,” Wiley said.
Wiley’s appointment positions the Foundation to build on its strong track record and continue expanding its impact across conservation and outdoor recreation in Florida. With deep roots in the state and a distinguished career in the field, he brings the experience and perspective needed to lead the Foundation’s work on behalf of Florida’s fish, wildlife and wild places.
