The city of Scottsdale has named Jenna Kohl as its new preserve director, bringing more than 25 years of executive leadership experience in community-focused organizations to the role. She will officially join the city on Sept. 22.

Kohl joins the city with a strong record of advancing strategic initiatives through thoughtful planning, stakeholder engagement and team development. Most recently, she served as executive director of DC Ranch, where she guided capital improvements, sustainability efforts and operational priorities in close partnership with appointed boards and cross-functional teams.

Prior to her work at DC Ranch, Kohl was the community executive officer for Anthem, overseeing operations for the 26,000-resident master-planned community. Her earlier career includes leadership roles in Illinois municipal government, including assistant village manager, where she managed environmental programs, capital projects and emergency response operations.

“Jenna’s deep experience in local government and community leadership, paired with her personal passion for the Sonoran Desert, make her an ideal fit for this important role,” said Nick Molinari, the city’s senior director of parks & recreation and preserve.

City Manager Greg Caton echoed that sentiment. “The preserve is one of Scottsdale’s most treasured community assets, and Jenna’s leadership will ensure we continue to protect, manage and enhance it with the care it deserves. We are thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Kohl holds a Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Drake University. A Scottsdale resident and alum of Scottsdale Leadership, she is an avid hiker who spends much of her free time exploring the trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

As preserve director, Kohl will oversee the stewardship of Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve — a permanently protected, sustainable desert habitat that spans nearly 30,000 acres. The preserve is home to more than 225 miles of trails and provides residents and visitors with opportunities to connect with the Sonoran Desert through hiking, biking, horseback riding and guided educational programs.