The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) has appointed Melissa Tesche as its new executive director.
Tesche, who previously worked with OBWB from 2010 to 2012, has held leadership roles as general manager of the BC Fruit Growers鈥� Association and the Okanagan-Kootenay Sterile Insect Release Program. She has background in conservation biology and experience with local organizations.
"Melissa is an exceptional addition to the OBWB, and the board is very excited to work with her to drive our future as we are increasingly being asked to do more," said Board Chair Blair Ireland. "Her prior experience with us gives her a deep understanding of our work, and her proven track record with local organizations makes her the perfect fit."
Originally from northern Alberta, Tesche moved to the Okanagan in 2008 with her husband to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in Conservation Biology at UBC Okanagan.
鈥淚t is an honour to lead OBWB into its next chapter,鈥� Tesche said. 鈥淭aking care of our shared water is essential to protecting the Okanagan鈥檚 quality of life. Ensuring we have enough clean water鈥攆or our fish, our families, and our farms鈥攊s no small task.鈥�
Tesche steps into the role as longtime Executive Director Anna Warwick Sears prepares to retire on April 22 after 19 years of service.
"I am pleased and proud that Melissa has accepted this position,鈥� Warwick Sears said. 鈥淪he brings fresh ideas, leadership, and vision to this role, ensuring the OBWB's continued commitment to protecting the Okanagan's water for generations to come."
Tesche holds a Master of Science in Conservation Biology from the University of British Columbia and both a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Sciences from the University of Alberta.
