RGS & AWS is proud to welcome two conservation leaders – filling new roles – whose knowledge, experience and vision will help usher in a new era of habitat impact.
Mark Hatfield and Karl Malcolm join RGS & AWS as chief conservation officer (operations) and vice president of conservation, respectively. Together, they bring a combined 40+ years of fieldwork, program management and policy leadership to the team.
Strategic Leadership to Match Strategic Growth
This moment represents more than new titles, it’s a clear signal of the commitment RGS & AWS has to scaling forest wildlife conservation through sound systems, expanded partnerships and strong leadership.
About Mark Hatfield
Mark has worked at the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) for more than 20 years, where he most recently served as the national director of science and planning. He led the development of NWTF’s groundbreaking $50+ million Keystone Agreement with the U.S. Forest Service and the stewardship of the NWTF and Natural Resources Conservation Service partnership.
Mark brings unmatched experience in aligning conservation action with business efficiency.
From his early days as a wildlife biologist, to his national nonprofit leadership, Mark has earned a reputation for sound judgment and mission-focus. He’s passionate about building strong teams, clear systems and conservation programs that deliver.
“RGS & AWS has a proud history and a powerful mission,” Mark said. “I’m honored to help strengthen our operational capacity so the entire conservation team and our volunteers can do what we do best – restore habitat, build partnerships and make a difference on the ground and in communities.”
About Karl Malcolm
Karl is a widely respected conservationist with a strong background in forest policy, public-private partnerships and ecological restoration. Most recently, he served as assistant director of renewable resources for the U.S. Forest Service Eastern Region. He’s also known for his work with the Aldo Leopold Foundation and his thought leadership in conservation circles. His career includes global innovation, like helping establish China’s first privately funded nature reserve, and local impact while working with RGS & AWS as a key Forest Service liaison. Karl’s leadership style is collaborative, science-informed and community-focused.
“Ruffed grouse, woodcock and the healthy forests these iconic species help define need proactive, science-based conservation action,” Karl said. “This role allows me to combine my background in policy, relationship building and boots-on-the-ground project delivery in a way that will benefit forests, wildlife and all of us who cherish these special places.”
What It Means for Our Members and Mission
By investing in our leadership team, RGS & AWS is increasing our ability to deliver results where they matter most – in the woods near you. An expanded leadership team helps us move fast, think big and build partnerships that serve grouse, woodcock and all forest wildlife.
RGS & AWS President and CEO Ben Jones shared:
“It’s August so I’ll use a baseball metaphor; we just passed the All-Star break and recruited two franchise players heading into the pennant race and playoffs. These professionals, Mark and Karl, will make the big plays. They’ll make a difference for us when it matters most. Our habitat impact has grown in scope and ambition. Much work remains. Mark and Karl are here because they bring the skills, values and leadership to scale our work in smart, lasting ways.”
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