PORTLAND — GrowSmart Maine announced the hiring of Andrew Zarro as their new development director.

Zarro has strong non-profit and development experience, having served as executive director of several small non-profits in Boston. His previous organizations span a range from criminal justice reform to downtown revitalization.

“We are very pleased to welcome Andrew to GrowSmart Maine,” said Nancy Smith, Executive Director. “He brings a terrific blend of experience, education and expertise, along with a deep commitment to Maine’s quality places and the people who care about them.”

Zarro grew up in rural Vermont where he later attended the University of Vermont focusing on rural economic development and earned a B.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics. He relocated to Boston in 2011 to pursue a Master of Public Administration at Northeastern University, and has recently settled in Portland. Spending his summers in Southern Maine growing up cemented his love for the state and a family visit in 2011 confirmed that Portland was home.

“I am very excited to join the GrowSmart Maine team,” Zarro said. “Our work is paramount to sustainable economic growth, community development and strategic conservation across the state. I look forward to working with our staff, board and members as well as the many collaborative partners towards a bright future for all of Maine.”

GrowSmart Maine promotes sustainable prosperity for all Mainers by integrating working and natural landscape conservation, economic growth and community revitalization. We promote Quality of Place by convening and engaging in public conversations about Maine’s future, contributing common sense policy analysis, educating the public, advocating for state and local change and supporting model practices.

For more information on GrowSmart Maine, email info@growsmartmaine.org or visit us at www.growsmartmaine.org.