Operations

Justin Smith

Justin serves as Chief Program Officer at Big Waters Land Trust, where he supports the organization’s efforts across land conservation, public policy, and community engagement. In this role, he contributes to land acquisition initiatives, assists in advancing advocacy at the state and local levels, and works alongside the team to support outreach, education, and land … Read more

Robyn Powell

Robyn Powell

Robyn Powell joined Big Waters as Controller in June 2023 after moving to Florida from Indiana. In her role, she is responsible for maintaining the financial records of the organization, analyzing results, and reporting findings to management and our Board of Trustees. Robyn is a seasoned financial specialist with a background in healthcare financial management, … Read more

Sam Peterson

Sam Peterson

Sam Peterson joined Big Waters in April 2019. He is a Sarasota native and University of South Florida graduate. Sam is property manager at our Bay Preserve Headquarters and can often be found working on the grounds to ensure they are cared for and welcoming to all. Sam also oversees the site rental process and … Read more

Christine Johnson

Christine P. Johnson is a fifth-generation Floridian who shares the Big Waters’ vision for the human and natural worlds to flourish together. After earning a BS in Business Administration from the College of Charleston and an MBA from the University of Florida, Christine worked in management and consulted with Fortune 500 companies in fields ranging … Read more

Michael Greatchus

Michael joined Big Waters in 2021. He was born and raised in New England and graduated from Hesser College. In 2005, Michael moved to sunny Florida with his husband Frank. As an Executive Assistant Michael brings to Big Waters extensive experience as a trusted partner providing support on administrative and business management. He resides in … Read more

Pam Brownell

Pam Brownell

Pam joined Big Waters December 2007. Her current role as Chief of Staff encompasses oversight of daily organizational operations, human resources, Board Governance, risk management and all capital projects. Pam’s extensive understanding of the Land Trust Alliance’s Standards and Practices have helped Big Waters ensure compliance and achieve the status of a nationally accredited land … Read more