We, at the Green Leadership Trust, are on a path of solidifying our organizational development. As we enter our tenth year, we recognize that the pace of climate change and the pervasive nature of racial injustice in the environmental sector demand unprecedented action.We are happy to announce the return of Francisco “Paco” Ollervides, GLT’s first Executive Director, into the pivotal role of GLT’s inaugural Membership Director. Paco brings institutional memory, familiarity with the network’s members and steadfast dedication to the mission of GLT.Get a glimpse of Paco’s genius:

Francisco Ollervides is better known as “Paco,” a common nickname in Mexico where he was born and raised. For over 21 years, Paco has worked in the nonprofit world, specifically developing leadership, and building capacity of individuals in environmental and conservation organizations in the USA and throughout Latin America. He served as the first Executive Director for Green Leadership Trust and was most recently Ocean Conservancy’s Director of Ocean Climate Justice. He previously worked for River Network as leadership development manager helping leaders in the Great Lakes region think and act strategically, equitably, and inclusively by improving their efficiency and efficacy. Paco served as Senior Field Coordinator with the Waterkeeper Alliance advising nonprofits in Latin America. He has also served as Director of the School for Field Studies (Center for Coastal Studies) in San Carlos, Mexico.He has been a resident lecturer and adviser in the areas of Economic and Ethical Issues in Sustainable Development, Coastal Ecology, and Resource Ecology and Management (Boston University). Paco’s main interest is marine conservation and strengthening individuals to ensure organizations’ continuity and success in the areas of strategic planning, fundraising, board development, and succession planning. He has participated in and presented at numerous professional and academic conferences, both in the U.S. and internationally. Paco is a biochemical engineer and marine bio-acoustician by training. Paco holds both M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from the Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Department at Texas A&M University. Paco is based near Columbus, Ohio. In his free time, he likes to go on long walks in the woods with his entire family, travel, and savor local cuisine and history.

Our powerhouse leadership team, Managing Director Dany Sigwalt and Membership Director Paco Ollervides, brings 3 experienced executives with extensive board expertise and network weaving skills to complement GLT’s visionary steering committee.Together we are expanding our marquee programs like the Cecil Corbin-Mark Vanguard Leadership, GLT’s onboarding and orientation program for new board members; deepening our engagement with indigenous leaders and young people on environmental boards; and maximizing our impact on a sector that has for far too long marginalized Black, Brown and Indigenous leadership.Please join us in welcoming Paco back at this pivotal time.In Solidarity,Emira