Ruffed Grouse Society names John B. Eichinger as new President and CEO

Ruffed Grouse Society names John B. Eichinger as new President and CEO

Dr. Gaylen Byker, Chair of the Ruffed Grouse Society’s Board of Directors, announced today that John B. Eichinger has been selected as the Ruffed Grouse Society’s (RGS) new President and Chief Executive Officer.

According to Dr. Byker, “When our current President and CEO, Dr. Mike Zagata, announced his retirement at our National Hunt in October, 2012, the Board began an exhaustive national search to find his replacement. It was not going to be easy to find someone with Mike’s strong background in both business and conservation. That search ended in April when John emerged as someone who has the skills and background needed to move the Society forward.”

In being named, President and CEO, John shared the following comments: “I am honored to be selected by the Board of RGS and look forward to advancing its mission. The Ruffed Grouse Society has an important conservation leadership role in helping to advance sound science-based efforts in how we address early successional forest management and in support of habitat for hunted and non-hunted wildlife. I also look forward to working with Mike during the transition. My passion for grouse hunting, fishing and wildlife conservation is evidenced by my participation and active involvement in the leadership of local, state, national and international hunting and conservation organizations. RGS has a highly respected team of biologists and the headquarters staff and regional directors have a history of success.”

John’s career reflects the blend RGS was seeking. He holds a MBA from Central Michigan University with a concentration in marketing and a BS in biology from the same institution. He served as Executive Director for Safari Club International and as a volunteer and officer for the Michigan United Conservation Clubs, Michigan Wildlife Foundation, National Wildlife Federation and the Michigan Outdoor Habitat Brokerage, Inc. John has held senior positions in both international and domestic businesses and served with the US Army in Vietnam.

John will start on May 21, 2012 prior to the June Board meeting.

For additional information contact Tracy Greene at (412) 262–4044.