As part of an ongoing effort to expand and strengthen its executive leadership with talent and expertise, One Tree Planted has welcomed Matthew Jeffery as Chief Programs Officer. Matthew Jeffery (Matt) is a seasoned organizational leader and strategic thinker with a rich background in global conservation.

Hailing from the United Kingdom as the son of a zookeeper, Matt's journey in conservation has been marked by dedication, innovation, and impactful outcomes for ecosystems and communities. His remarkable career includes a distinguished 16-year tenure at the National Audubon Society, where he swiftly ascended to leadership roles, shaping conservation objectives across the Western Hemisphere. Prior to his time at Audubon, Matt devoted himself to conservation efforts in Southeast Asia, collaborating with governmental agencies and local communities to combat the illegal wildlife trade and establish protected areas.

Matt's career trajectory has exposed him to a diverse array of ecosystems and cultures, from the temperate forests of Canada to the tropical coastlines of Panama. His expertise spans various scales of conservation, from local community engagement to global policy advocacy. Throughout his journey, Matt has built bridges between stakeholders, earning trust and respect from individuals across nationalities and sectors.

Among his many accomplishments, Matt played a pivotal role in establishing the 1 Million acre Cardamom Forest Reserve in Cambodia, a landmark conservation achievement in collaboration with Conservation International and the Cambodian government. In Panama, he spearheaded efforts to protect mangroves and coastal habitats, working closely with local partners and government entities to craft innovative conservation programs.

In addition to his work in habitat protection, Matt has led science efforts for endangered species such as the Piping Plover in The Bahamas, advocating for the creation of marine protected areas to safeguard critical habitat and support local economies. Furthermore, his leadership in bird-based tourism initiatives across Latin America and the Caribbean has not only fostered conservation but also transformed the lives of countless community members, creating sustainable livelihoods through the preservation of bird habitats.

Matt's journey stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to conservation and his ability to effect positive change on both local and global scales. Through his leadership and vision, he continues to inspire action for the protection of our planet's precious biodiversity and resources.

Our reforestation projects drive and inspire everything we do. As One Tree Planted continues to grow, we are thrilled to have Matt's leadership and expertise guiding our Programs Team.