ROCKLAND — Island Institute has named Doug Schlemmer as its new Chief Operating Officer. Schlemmer joined Island Institute in July, according to an Island Institute news release, "bringing more than 25 years of experience helping organizations translate ambitious strategies into measurable results through strategic planning, operational excellence, organizational transformation, and performance management." 

As Chief Operating Officer, Schlemmer leads operational strategy and works to strengthen the systems, processes and organizational capabilities that support Island Institute’s mission and long-term strategic goals. 

“Doug brings a strong mix of experience in operations, organizational development, and strategy, but just as important, he shares our values and commitment to Maine’s coast and its communities,” said Island Institute President Kimberly Hamilton. “We are excited to have him join Island Institute during this period of growth and to focus all our assets on expanding impact in coastal communities.” 

Before joining Island Institute, Schlemmer served as Assistant Vice President of Customer Experience Transformation at Unum Group, where he partnered across the enterprise to build the governance, capabilities, and culture, to position Unum as a leader in customer experience. Earlier in his career, Schlemmer was a management consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, advising clients on strategy, organizational change, governance, and operational effectiveness.  

Schlemmer also brings extensive experience in international development. He founded World Assistance for Cambodia’s Rural School Project, serving as its Executive Director. He has also advised organizations including the Ford Foundation and Mercy Corps on education, peacebuilding, and community development initiatives. 

For Schlemmer, joining Island Institute is also a continuation of a personal connection to Maine and its coast. 

“I surf off the Maine coast, hike its trails, camp along its waters and care deeply about the health of its marine environment and the resilience of its communities,” Schlemmer said. “More than a next step, this opportunity deepens the path I have already chosen—rooted in the same values that have guided my work from the beginning and my decision to move to Maine nine years ago.” 

Schlemmer is a graduate of Georgetown University and holds a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard Kennedy School. He is also a certified Project Management Professional and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. 

Schlemmer lives in Maine with his wife and daughter and enjoys exploring the coast, hiking, and camping with his family. 

Founded in 1983 and based in Rockland, Maine, Island Institute is a community development nonprofit that boldly navigates climate and economic change with island and coastal communities to expand opportunities and deliver solutions. For more information, visit islandinstitute.org.