SARASOTA, Fla. — Save Our Seabirds (SOS), one of the largest bird rescue centers in the state of Florida, recently appointed Aaron Virgin as its new chief executive officer.
Talent acquisition company MBJ Group led the organization’s nationwide search for a new CEO to help SOS fulfill its mission to rescue, rehabilitate and release seabirds, and to educate people of all ages on environmental issues.
David Pilston, the nonprofit’s previous CEO, announced his retirement earlier this year. Pilston and his wife will be moving to Europe in September following his 9-year tenure with SOS.
With over 20 years of experience, Virgin brings an extensive background in wildlife and environmental issues to the nonprofit. Most recently, he served as the philanthropy officer for Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. During his time there, Virgin utilized his background in natural sciences to foster a unique dialogue with Mote’s longtime supporters and prospects, and raised major gifts for research projects and operating support.
“We are thrilled to welcome Aaron to our team at Save Our Seabirds as his strong passion for environmental science and birds is clearly evident,” said Jim Curtis, board chair. “David made incredible strides during his time with us, and we have no doubt that Aaron will follow right in his footsteps. We look forward to continuing the success of SOS.”
In his new role, Virgin will be responsible for working with the SOS board of directors to create and fulfill the board’s strategic plan, establish appropriate goals for financial and operational performance, manage a high-performance team and control operational aspects of the organization, among other duties.
“I am excited to join the SOS team during a time of promising growth and change,” said Aaron Virgin. “I look forward to working with the board, staff and volunteers to enhance the quality of life for the birds on site, make upgrades to the avian hospital and build an educational center to create a rewarding experience for all.”
Virgin holds a master’s of professional studies in wildlife ecology and natural resources management from the College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, NY, and a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from State University of New York at Plattsburgh. He enjoys backpacking, kayaking, birding and spending time outdoors.
About Save Our Seabirds (SOS)
A nonprofit organization whose mission is to rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured birds and release as many as we can while educating our community about avoiding injuries and preserving habitats. We receive over 5,000 calls about sick and injured birds each year and strive to rehabilitate and release every one of them. Birds that are unable to be released may be given permanent homes in our educational Wild Bird Learning Center, which is essentially a living museum, and open to the public daily. For more information, visit www.SaveOurSeabirds.org.
About MBJ Group
Founded in 2000 by Mary Beth and Jim Bos, MBJ Group is a talent acquisition company. The husband-and-wife team has over 60 years of combined experience paired with the creativity, human capital and strategic resources to get the optimal performance from an organization. The premier provider’s services include employee, group and individual talent acquisition solutions, job placement, staff development and strategic services, executive recruitment and onboarding and transitioning services. For more information, visit www.MBJGroup.com.