The Philadelphia Orchard Project (POP) is entering a new chapter of growth and leadership — one that we’re thrilled to share with our community. Following an extensive search process, the POP Board of Directors is delighted to announce that we have hired a new Executive Director, Vikram Krishnamurthy.
With more than 25 years of experience in conservation and nonprofit leadership at both the national and regional levels, Vikram is uniquely positioned to lead POP into its next phase of growth. Most recently, Vikram served as Senior Director for American Forests, where he led the Careers and Opportunities team in creating programs that combined education and workforce development, targeting youth and underrepresented communities.
Vikram has devoted much of his career to improving the horticultural and food systems landscape in the greater Philadelphia region, serving as Executive Director of the Delaware Center for Horticulture, Deputy Director at Fair Food in Philadelphia and Managing Director at the Center for Public Horticulture at the University of Delaware. Vikram is a board member of Saluting Branches, a Garden Committee member for Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, and a member of the Delaware Recycling Public Advisory Council.
As Executive Director of the Delaware Center for Horticulture, Vikram expanded the organization’s mission by strengthening philanthropic, corporate, and government partnerships, and he introduced new programs for gardeners of all ages and levels of experience. Under his leadership, the organization achieved profitability, earned a GuideStar Platinum rating and surpassed fundraising goals to complete capital projects.
Reflecting on this next chapter, Vikram shared, “The work of POP is an ideal convergence of what I love most. Sharing experiences around trees and food has been a constant thread throughout my career. I’m excited to return to a role where I can work alongside partners to create vibrant urban ecosystems, connecting people through hands-on learning and the shared joy of growing food. POP’s deep community roots and the passion of its people have long inspired me, and I’m honored to build on that legacy while helping the organization thrive in fresh, meaningful ways.”
From our beginnings as a volunteer-driven effort to a thriving citywide nonprofit, POP’s strength has always come from the people who nurture it — our staff, community partners, dedicated volunteers, and supporters. Together, you have helped the organization blossom and deepen its impact across Philadelphia.
As we welcome Vikram into the POP community, we also want to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who helped guide this transition with such care. Thank you to the entire POP team for your steadfast commitment; Larry Bomback, founder of Strategic Nonprofit Finance, who led the executive search; and to our wider community for your advocacy and continued support. Your involvement has ensured that this next chapter is rooted in collaboration and continuity.
Vikram will assume his role on Feb. 2, 2026. Previous Co-Executive Directors Phil Forsyth and Kim Jordan are transitioning out of their roles, with Phil moving into the Director of Horticulture position with POP and Kim moving on to other opportunities. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and dedication that helped POP flourish into the fruitful organization it is today.
With Vikram’s leadership, we look forward to continuing our mission to plant and nurture community orchards that grow food, knowledge, and connection for all Philadelphians.
Thank you,
Marci Green,
President, Board of Directors