Mule Deer Foundation Announces New Senior Staff

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is thrilled to announce Greg Sheehan as the organization’s new President and CEO. With over 20 years of leadership experience in habitat and wildlife conservation, coupled with notable successes in business, Sheehan is poised to lead MDF into a new era of growth and impact.

Sheehan has most recently served as the Utah State Director of the US Bureau of Land Management, where he managed millions of acres of public lands and worked with a diverse array of stakeholders to implement effective land management strategies. His tenure as Director of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Director of the US Fish and Wildlife Service was marked by significant achievements in wildlife population restoration, habitat conservation, and increased access for sportsmen.

One of Sheehan’s most remarkable accomplishments includes his efforts in increasing Utah’s mule deer population by over 100,000 through innovative habitat restoration initiatives, predator management programs, and strategic translocations. His ability to build strong partnerships with industry, government agencies, tribes, and non-profit organizations will be instrumental in advancing MDF’s mission.

“The board and I are delighted to announce Greg Sheehan as the next President and CEO of the Mule Deer Foundation. We are confident that MDF is poised for significant growth, and we have taken great care to identify the ideal leader for this pivotal phase,” said Jordan Davis, MDF Board Chair. “Greg’s extensive background and experience will be instrumental as we intensify our fundraising and mission delivery efforts, especially given his substantial experience working with federal and state agencies. We eagerly anticipate Greg’s contributions to further elevate MDF’s impact and reach.”

“I am truly honored to step into the role of CEO at the Mule Deer Foundation, an organization I have long admired. I eagerly anticipate working alongside the MDF team to advance our efforts in boosting Mule Deer and Blacktail Deer populations while supporting the needs of hunters and all who value these remarkable animals and their habitats.” said Sheehan. 

“The decline of Mule Deer populations in the West has been a growing concern for years. As a lifelong hunter and dedicated conservationist, my goal is to reverse this trend. I look forward to collaborating closely with our dedicated staff, government partners, and enthusiastic volunteers to restore and sustain the iconic Mule Deer for future generations.”

Kelly Hepler, the interim CEO of MDF, also offered his congratulations and support: “I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Greg Sheehan for his appointment as the new President and CEO of the Mule Deer Foundation. I have worked with Greg throughout the years in his leadership positions with the State of Utah, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. He is a consummate professional and a recognized leader in the conservation community. I look forward to working with Greg for a seamless transition in October. My time as the interim CEO has been an honor, and I want to express my appreciation and humble respect to all of the outstanding employees at the Foundation.”