Brian Murphy has resigned as CEO of the Quality Deer Management Association, effective immediately, after 23 years in the position.

Murphy announced his resignation on March 3 and the intent to transition into a part-time role with the organization. A search for his replacement has begun, and will continue now with his immediate departure.

“I’ve decided it is best for QDMA, me and my family for me to pass the torch sooner and give staff leaders the freedom to implement new strategies to address new challenges,” he said. “I am confident in each of them and their ability to work as a team, continue pursuing the QDMA mission, and assist in the selection of the new CEO.”

The QDMA Board of Directors has empowered a group of five department leaders to temporarily handle executive functions of the organization. The leadership team includes:

—April Robertson, Director of Finance & Administration

— Kip Adams, Director of Conservation

— Lindsay Thomas Jr., Director of Communications

— Matt Ross, Assistant Director of Conservation

— Hank Forester, Assistant Director of Hunting Heritage Programs

This group will work closely with Board Chairman Rick Dahl until a new CEO is named.

“These five staff members collectively have over 60 years of experience at QDMA, and the Board is confident in their ability to effectively guide QDMA at this time,” Dahl said. “Most of them have been in managerial roles at QDMA during other challenging periods like the Great Recession, and I know they will see QDMA through the current challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and into the new period of growth and accomplishment.”

The interim leadership team also has the support and assistance of Joe Hamilton, QDMA Founder and Senior Advisor, who has been instrumental in assembling a network of major donors known as the Brothers-Hamilton Society.

As CEO, Murphy led the organization through a period of unparalleled growth and accomplishment for the non-profit organization.

(Information from QDMA)