Office of the director

The Director's Office provides strategic direction and operational oversight for Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) employees throughout the state, working to turn policies adopted by the state Legislature and the Fish and Wildlife Commission into action.

About the director

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Photo by WDFW

Kelly Susewind joined the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) as director in August 2018, after spending 28 years at the Washington Department of Ecology.

A lifelong outdoorsman and longtime resident of Washington, Susewind oversees 1,800 employees throughout the state, tasked with fulfilling WDFW's mission of conserving fish and wildlife and providing sustainable recreational and commercial opportunities.

Susewind grew up in Aberdeen, and graduated from Grays Harbor College with an associate's degree in engineering before receiving his bachelor's degree in geological engineering from Washington State University. After spending several years working in the private sector in Alaska and Seattle, Susewind joined the Department of Ecology in 1990.

Susewind served in numerous roles during his time at Ecology, including as manager of the Water Quality Program and, most recently, as director of administrative services and environmental policy.

His Leadership Team 

Learn more about Director Susewind's leadership team. 

Director's Statements, Correspondence, and Events