Search Launched for New Foundation CEO and

Update on Executive Director Transition

Joel Benson, President of the Board of Directors of The Foundation for Natural Resources and Energy Law (the “Foundation”), announced today that the search for the next chief executive of the Foundation has been launched. As part of that search, the title of the position will change from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Benson also announced that current Executive Director Alex Ritchie has accepted a new position and that the Foundation has appointed Associate Director Jaleen Edwards to serve as Interim Executive Director until the new CEO has been selected and begins work at the Foundation.

Search for New CEO



The Foundation is partnering with Aspen Leadership Group in a nationwide search for the Foundation's CEO. You can find the role description and information for submitting applications below:

Benson said, “I encourage you to share information about the opportunity to serve as the Foundation’s CEO with your network. The Board of Directors is confident that we will find an outstanding executive that can build on the work undertaken by Alex during his tenure and continue the tradition of excellence at the Foundation.”

Executive Director Transition Update

Executive Director Alex Ritchie has accepted a new position as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Ur-Energy Inc., a uranium mining company that owns and operates in-situ recovery projects in south-central Wyoming. His last day with the Foundation will be December 10, 2025.

The Board of Directors has appointed Jaleen Edwards, the Foundation’s Associate Director—Member and Scholar Development, to serve as Interim Executive Director until the search has been completed for a permanent CEO to succeed Ritchie. Consistent with the Foundation’s Executive Director Succession Plan, Edwards has informed the Board that she does not intend to apply for the permanent position.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Jaleen for her willingness to take on this interim role,” said Benson. “Jaleen is extremely capable and has done an excellent job over the past six years managing memberships, administrative matters, and our Scholar Development Program. We are confident that Jaleen, along with Associate Director—Programs Melissa Magee and the rest of our outstanding staff, will ensure continuity during the interim period consistent with our mission.”

Benson added, “Alex has been working diligently to complete key projects and ensure a smooth transition and continued operations while the nationwide CEO search proceeds. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Alex again for his exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to the Foundation.”

“Although I am leaving my role as Executive Director and excited about my next chapter, I intend to remain involved in the Foundation,” said Ritchie. “I hope to see as many of you as possible at the 72nd Annual Institute in Seattle. Over the past few months, I have been working closely with Program Chair Tara Righetti and the Annual Institute Section Chairs, and I am very excited about the program and the energy surrounding the event.”

About the Foundation



The Foundation for Natural Resources and Energy Law is an educational, non-profit organization dedicated to the scholarly and practical study of all aspects of natural resources and energy law. We value collegiality and bring together lawyers, professionals, academics, and students to learn and network in a supportive environment where all participants are valued. We are known for fostering collegial professional relationships among our members and for high-quality, scholarly, and practical educational offerings.