Jim Williams, a longtime biologist and wildlife manager for the State of Montana, has been named regional supervisor for Northwest Montana.
Williams was named chief of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ Region 1 on Nov. 14. He is replacing Jim Satterfield, who retired this summer after nine years.
Williams served as interim chief the past six months. He has worked for FWP for 23 years, including the past 15 years as wildlife manager in Region 1. He began his career as a biologist in FWP’s Region 4 out of Great Falls.
“What I like most about this career is that in FWP you’re working with people, whether it’s landowners or hunters, who are very passionate and they really care about the wildlife and the resources,” he said. “I’m excited to take it to the next level and work within the communities in Northwest Montana and work with the local hunters, landowners, legislators, rod and gun clubs and other agencies. I’m just very excited.”
FWP Director Jeff Hagener chose Williams to take over the agency’s top position in Northwest Montana, with the help of a selection committee.
The agency also filled a vacant regional supervisor position in Region 3. Sam Sheppard, a former warden captain based in Bozeman, was named regional chief.
There were 23 applicants for both regional positions and three finalists were chosen for each region, according to Paul Sihler, FWP’s chief of operations.
“Jim’s got such extensive experience with the department and with wildlife management and difficult issues. He’s a great communicator, a great relationship builder and a great leader,” Sihler said. “We had some other well qualified candidates but Jim really stood out.”
There are seven regional supervisors in Montana who each oversee fish and wildlife management and guide policy and enforcement in their selective areas.
One of Williams’ first tasks will be to name his replacement for regional wildlife manager. That person will then need to replace John Vore, a former wildlife biologist who was recently promoted to game management bureau chief in FWP’s headquarters in Helena.