The National Trust for Historic Preservation has named preservation lawyer and National Trust chief legal officer Paul Edmondson as its new CEO. 

In a statement announcing Edmondson's selection, Timothy Whalen, chair of the National Trust Board of Trustees, writes, "Through the search, the Trust’s Board identified Paul as the person who, owing to his experience, his lifelong commitment to preservation, and his integrity, is perfectly suited to lead the National Trust. The Board embraces him with great enthusiasm and complete unanimity."

Edmondson's experience with the National Trust includes fighting to strengthen the enforcement and interpretation of preservation law, including a campaign to remove a large power transmission line from the James River near Jamestown, Virginia. Edmondson has also advocated for protecting archeological and cultural resources on public lands, like those located at the Bears Ears National Monument. Over the years, Edmondson has worked to improve the National Trust's easement program and has helped develop new shared-use models for historic sites. 

Edmondson takes over for the former National Trust president, Stephanie Meeks. Meeks, the first woman chief executive for the organization, announced her resignation in 2018.