After a two-year search, the Leelanau Conservancy Board of Directors has hired a new executive director to lead the nonprofit organization. Tom Nelson - who has worked for the Conservancy since 2004 and served as Director of Farm Programs since 2008 - will take over the position effective January 1.

According to a statement released by the board, the Conservancy undertook a rigorous search process that led to the identification of four potential candidates from across the country, each of whom spent nine hours interviewing with a hiring search committee. Nelson was the unanimous choice of that committee. "I'm absolutely delighted that Tom will take over the helm," says retiring Executive Director Brian Price, who will work with Nelson through the end of the year to transition leadership. "I have worked with him for the last 10 years, and have the utmost confidence in his ability to lead our experienced and knowledgeable staff as well as our committed volunteers and supporters."

Nelson holds a BA from the College of Wooster and a law degree from Vermont Law School, with a specialty in environmental law and policy. He lives in Centerville Township in Leelanau County with his wife Stephanie and four children.