Meet Our New Executive Director: Ryan Jackson
We’re thrilled to welcome Ryan Jackson as LA Compost’s new Executive Director! With over 15 years of experience in local government in both Los Angeles and San Francisco, Ryan brings a deep understanding of how community-centered programs can drive systems change. His leadership is rooted in public service, environmental justice, and a belief in the transformative power of collective action.
“I am so pleased to serve as LA Compost’s new Executive Director. My heart is full as I reflect on the trust extended by the Board, our team, community partners, and especially our founder, Michael Martinez. Over the past decade, you've built something rare: a movement rooted in care for people, land, and future generations. It’s a privilege to help carry that work forward.
My introduction to this organization came during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. I remember watching residents from all over the County bring food scraps to an LA Compost drop-off location, where staff and volunteers were also giving away free plants and exchanging gardening tips, as many were spending more time at home. Even in a time of distance, people showed up for one another and the environment. Coming from San Francisco, where composting had long been normalized, I had forgotten how rewarding and connective this simple act could be. LA Compost reminded me: this work builds community, and everyone has a role to play.
After 15 years in local government - both here in Los Angeles and San Francisco - I’ve learned that the most transformative programs are ones where everyone sees themselves as a stakeholder. From my past experiences, this looked like: motivated residents dropping off hazardous waste for proper disposal, skillful public utility workers planting new green infrastructure to capture rainwater, innovative nonprofit program officers resourcing new initiatives, and committed neighborhood volunteers stewarding the soil. We achieve so much more by working together, and LA Compost is proof of that.
As we look to the next chapter, our vision is ambitious and clear: to institutionalize community composting as a vital part of Los Angeles’ solid waste and food systems. We’ll continue to share with new partners what many of you already know -- community composting makes for both healthy soils and a science-backed climate solution. I am proud to join this winning team and look forward to meeting more of LA Compost's network in the months to come. Please do not hesitate to reach out and connect: ryan@lacompost.org.”
- Ryan Jackson, Executive Director
We’re endlessly grateful to our founder, Michael Martinez, for over a decade of visionary leadership. As Michael transitions out of the Executive Director role, we celebrate his unwavering commitment to building a healthier, more connected Los Angeles. Stay tuned for a special event honoring Michael and supporting LA Compost’s next chapter.
“It’s been one of the great joys of my life to build this organization alongside so many dedicated people. Ryan’s leadership as Board Chair has already strengthened our foundation, and I’m excited to support him and the team as we enter this new chapter together.”
- Michael Martinez, Founder
Let's Celebrate Together: We’re planning a special fundraising event later this year to honor Michael’s legacy and support LA Compost's next era.
Click here and sign up to be the first to hear details and get involved.