Erica Lighthiser and Max Hjortsberg Named Managing Directors
Max Hjortsberg and Erica Lighthiser
On behalf of the PCEC board of directors, I am excited to share some big news with you. We are happy to announce that Erica Lighthiser and Max Hjortsberg are PCEC’s new managing directors, effective July 1.
Erica and Max bring a wealth of experience in environmental advocacy, organizational leadership, and community engagement. Their combined experience of 17 years with PCEC, and deep understanding of local issues, have equipped them with a strong commitment to safeguarding Yellowstone’s northern gateway.
Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their previous roles at PCEC. They worked side-by-side with Michelle Uberuaga, our previous executive director, from the beginning. We are confident they will be able to take the reins of the organization and seamlessly transition into the shared leadership role, carrying the vision they built with Michelle of a nimble, locally led organization that will show up for this community and empower leaders throughout the area.
During their tenure at PCEC, Erica and Max were instrumental in getting the Yellowstone Gateway Protection Act passed, stopping oil and gas development on the edge of the Yellowstone River near Livingston, building support for proactive planning in the face of rapid development, planting trees, advocating for wildlife coexistence and for taking on complex land use and access issues.
Many on the board, including myself, have had the pleasure of working with both Erica and Max over the past few years. We have no doubt that under their leadership, PCEC will continue to thrive and make significant strides in our conservation efforts. Their vision aligns perfectly with our mission to safeguard the land, water, wildlife and people of this area.
The board also believes the managing director model aligns nicely with PCEC's commitment to a flat organizational structure. We researched the model, looking to other similarly sized organizations in Montana that have successfully moved in this direction. We believe it will foster a positive atmosphere of collaboration, transparency, and shared responsibility.
Both Erica and Max believe in empowering every team member to contribute their ideas and expertise, enhancing collective decision-making and innovation. This approach not only reflects our core values, but also ensures PCEC’s work is driven by a united and inclusive team effort.
All of us at PCEC are looking forward to this new chapter that is just about to begin. Please join me in giving Erica and Max a warm welcome to their new roles leading the organization.
In community,
Wendy Riley
PCEC Board President