We are proud to announce an exciting new chapter for the Foundation with the appointment of Nick Wiley as our new Executive Director.
Nick brings a lifetime of conservation leadership, deep Florida roots, and a national perspective that will help guide our mission forward at a critical time for wildlife and habitat conservation.
Nick joins the Foundation from Ducks Unlimited, Inc., a leading national conservation nonprofit headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. His experience advancing large-scale conservation efforts and building strong partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to grow our impact across Florida.
Before his work on the national stage, Nick dedicated 30 years to conservation right here in Florida with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Starting his career as a wildlife biologist in the field, he rose through the ranks to serve as Executive Director for eight years. In that role, he championed initiatives that connected people with nature and expanded opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing across the state.
Nick’s impact in Florida has already been recognized by our organization. In 2017 he received the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s Conservation Leadership Award, an honor that reflects both his professional accomplishments and his enduring commitment to Florida’s natural resources.
Throughout his career, Nick has been a respected leader in the conservation community. He is a fellow of the National Conservation Leadership Institute, past president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and a professional member of the Boone and Crockett Club. He also serves as a board member and past chairman of the Council to Advance Hunting and Shooting Sports, and as a board member for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.
“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,” Nick remarked.
Nick holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Georgia Southern University and a Master of Science degree in Wildlife Management from Auburn University. He is a Certified Wildlife Biologist and Chairs the Dean’s Advisory Council for Auburn’s College of Forestry and Wildlife.
Outside of his professional work, Nick enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends through hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and boating.
“We are excited to welcome Nick Wiley to the Foundation at such an important time for our organization,” shared 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.”
As we welcome Nick to the Foundation, we are excited for the vision, experience, and leadership he brings. His unique blend of Florida expertise and national conservation leadership positions us to expand our impact and continue protecting the wildlife and wild places that make Florida special.
