Foothills Conservancy of NC expands staff with new operations manager
Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina has added a newly created operations manager position to strengthen internal operations and organizational administration, and support its long-term growth.
The position was identified as a priority during Foothills Conservancy's recent strategic planning process, which recognized the need to strengthen operational systems as the organization continues to grow its programs, partnerships and impact across its eight-county service area.
Western North Carolina native Aubrey Robbie joined Foothills Conservancy in July.
Western North Carolina native Aubrey Robbie joined Foothills Conservancy in July and, as operations manager, she will oversee day-to-day administrative operations, organizational systems and internal processes that support every aspect of Foothills Conservancy's conservation work.
Previously, Robbie worked with the Community Foundation of Burke County and United Way Emerald Coast, bringing six years of experience supporting nonprofit organizations through grants, operations and organizational management.
For Robbie, joining Foothills Conservancy represents something personal.
Growing up in Avery County, she spent much of her childhood hiking, kayaking and exploring the mountains of western North Carolina, including places like South Mountains State Park. After spending several years away while her husband served in the military, she and her family returned to North Carolina in 2024.
"I've always wanted to be part of a mission I could wholeheartedly believe in," Robbie said. "I knew I had the skills for this role, but what really drew me here was the organization itself. Returning home and realizing so many of the places I loved growing up have been protected through Foothills Conservancy's work made me even more excited to become part of the team."
Her connection to Foothills Conservancy extends back even further. Robbie's mother previously worked with the organization as a contracted accounting professional, and in her role with the Community Foundation of Burke County, Robbie reviewed Foothills Conservancy's grant applications, including the strategic planning grant that ultimately led to the creation of her position.
"Even from the outside, it was clear that FCNC was thinking intentionally about its future," she said. "The strategic planning process demonstrated a proactive approach to growth that really stood out to me."
Executive Director Andrew Kota said the new role reflects the organization's commitment to building a strong organization capable of meeting the region's growing conservation needs.
"As our organization continues to grow, so does the work happening behind the scenes," Kota said. "Protecting more land, serving more communities, and expanding our programs all depend on strong operational systems. This position is an investment in the long-term health of our organization and our ability to carry out our mission for decades to come."
The strategic plan, adopted by the land trust’s board of directors earlier this year, identified strengthening organizational capacity as a key priority alongside expanding community engagement, environmental education and land conservation efforts throughout its eight-county service area. To learn more about its strategic plan, visit foothillsconservancy.org.
