WASHINGTON — The National Wildlife Federation announced that Audrey Buehring will join the organization as Vice President of Program Operations. Buehring will play a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission by overseeing program operations teams, guiding program budget development and management and streamlining operations.

“We are excited and fortunate to have Audrey join our senior leadership team,” said Ben Kota, chief operating officer at the National Wildlife Federation. “With an extensive track record in public service and at mission-focused organizations, she will be instrumental in ensuring that our operations and systems can support our leading work to ensure people and wildlife thrive in our rapidly changing world.”

“As a longtime outdoor enthusiast, I could not be more excited to join the team,” said Buehring. “Our mission to protect wildlife has never been more critical, and I look forward to supporting the National Wildlife Federation’s trademark programs while helping the organization operate as efficiently and effectively as possible.”

Buehring brings over 15 years of public sector and nonprofit experience to the organization. As the city of Seattle’s Deputy Director of Human Services, she led the department’s strategic planning process, coordinated policy responses to key issues and helped manage the department’s budget. In her most recent role as Chief of Staff to the Senior Vice President of Finance and Business Strategy at the Urban Institute, she implemented new data collection and evaluation processes and helped develop Urban’s first-ever strategic plan.

Buehring holds a BA in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University, an MA in Linguistics from the University of Florida and a JD from the University of Denver. Outside of the office, she is an avid hiker and enjoys spending time in nature.