She assumes the role following the retirement of Laurel Rematore, whose strong leadership of more than eight years fostered an environment for Smokies Life retail, wholesale, membership and publishing programs to flourish, enriching the visitor experience for millions.

Harp joins Smokies Life after nearly 18 years with REI Co-op in various roles, most recently as its regional director for the southeastern United States, supporting retail locations in East Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. She brings to her new role extensive experience in the outdoor industry, proven strategic leadership skills, a strong operational management background and deep commitment to partnership development and community engagement.

A nature and outdoor enthusiast who has completed the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certificate Program at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, Harp is a lifelong advocate for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. She also serves on the board of Nashville-based TennGreen Land Conservancy and is board chair of Chattanooga-based Lookout Mountain Conservancy.
Smokies Life retained Potrero Group, a national strategy and executive search firm, to facilitate the CEO search. For more information on Potrero Group, visit PotreroGroup.com.