SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (April 23, 2024) — Save the Redwoods League today announced the hiring of two new staff in key positions: Kirsten Saenz Tobey as chief operations officer and Carrie Speckart as director of people and culture.
As chief operations officer, Kirsten Saenz Tobey will oversee and direct the League’s operations and human resources functions, including leading strategic planning and advancing the organization’s diversity, equity and inclusion values. Tobey brings nearly 20 years of organizational management, leadership and vision to one of America’s oldest and most respected conservation organizations.
“I’m thrilled to announce that after a comprehensive recruitment effort, we have appointed Kirsten Saenz Tobey as the new chief operations officer for Save the Redwoods League,” said Sam Hodder, League president and CEO. “Kirsten’s extensive experience and her values-driven approach to leadership stood out amid a strong field of candidates. As the co-founder and former chief impact officer at Revolution Foods, Kirsten has shown remarkable leadership and deep dedication to making a positive difference in the world. Early in her career, Kirsten worked as an environmentalist and social justice advocate at Earthjustice, and we are delighted to welcome her back to the realm of conservation to take the lead in our organization during an exciting period of growth.”

Kirsten Saenz Tobey
“It is an honor to join Save the Redwoods League at this critical juncture of expansion. I’m eager to contribute my skills, insights and energy to further the mission of this esteemed organization,” Tobey said.
As director of people and culture, Carrie Speckart will handle all aspects of human resources—including recruitment, employee relations, leadership, management and staff for the League—to develop, implement and fine-tune strategic people and culture programs. She brings more than 20 years of operational expertise in human resource management and employee relations. Speckart will report to Tobey.
“Carrie’s ability to deliver deep insight and best practices across various HR areas will help ensure that the League’s workforce is empowered and supported to achieve our ambitious goals,” Hodder said. “Additionally, her values alignment with the League’s conservation vision further strengthens her ability to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s mission.”

Carrie Speckart
“My focus on aligning people, culture and systems fits perfectly with the organization’s mission to protect and restore California redwoods while fostering connections between people and these majestic forests,” Speckart said.
The League retained Potrero Group, a national strategy and executive search firm, to facilitate the COO search.