Elder is a longtime digital media executive with experience in the nuclear and climate change communities. He most recently served as the Chief Digital Officer at the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. Elder previously held positions at the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times, and Crain Communications, where he was the Executive Director of Digital Product Development & Innovation. Elder is also the author or editor of 16 books including, most recently, The Doomsday Clock at 75.
“It’s an exciting time to be joining Outrider, and I look forward to building on the organization’s legacy of excellence and public service,” said Elder. “It’s an opportunity to increase the brand’s impact with new partnerships, programs, and initiatives.”
Elder will focus on building the next generation of Outrider’s initiatives, emphasizing solutions-based programs, diverse voices, and fellowships. Outrider’s commitment to nuclear issues, climate change, and voter rights will continue to drive the future of the organization. Elder will join Outrider in May.
“We’re proud to have Rob lead Outrider into the future,” said Outrider’s founder, Frank Burgess. “He has a proven track record as a digital strategist and a brand-expansion expert who shares our core values.”
Elder will work with Burgess, the board, and staff to craft a future-focused strategy for Outrider. Outrider’s advisory board includes Thomas A. Loftus, the former U.S. ambassador to Norway, Charles Ries, Senior Director for Development Design and Innovation at Marquette University, and Hillary Vedvig, an environmental attorney at Foley & Lardner LLP.
