Waste Not Announces New Executive Director: Mara Pernick

Waste Not is pleased to announce the appointment of Mara Pernick as the new Executive Director, effective September 30, 2025.

Pernick brings over 25 years of leadership experience across multiple industries, including the nonprofit, government and private sectors. Prior to joining Waste Not, Pernick owned a marketing, business development and public affairs company.  Pernick has worked for several community organizations, including the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce.

As a third-generation Arizona native, Pernick grew up in Phoenix and studied at the University of Arizona, where she holds an undergraduate degree in communications and political science. To further her education, Pernick later earned a Master of Business Administration from George Mason University, with a concentration in finance and marketing.

“I think it's just a larger part of wanting to contribute positively to the community,” shared Pernick about her excitement to join Waste Not. “And so always trying to show kindness to others is just something that I try to live my life by.”

Of course, all her professional achievements don’t tell her whole story.  To help the community get to know her better, we sat down with Pernick for a quick Q&A.

Welcome Mara! While you haven’t been here long, what has stood out to you the most about Waste Not?

Everybody has been so lovely and wonderful. From the moment I first interviewed for the job and I have met the nicest people. It has been an absolute pleasure.

One thing that impresses me is how hard the drivers work every day. I had the opportunity to participate in a ride-along with a driver, and their hard work just inspired me. The hours they spend collecting and distributing food was something that we all know about but seeing it firsthand was very motivational.

What inspired you to take on the role as the new executive director of Waste Not?

I try to live by the motto, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ So, the opportunity to be part of Waste Not and contribute to such amazing community initiatives is what has drawn me to this position. The opportunity to help the community and to be part of something larger that benefits all is what I'm excited to be a part of.

You’re a busy woman. What is something you enjoy doing to recharge after a long workday?

I love being outside and participating in all types of sports like tennis, pickleball, pilates.  When I was younger, I used to play tennis a lot. But I started playing again about five years ago and fell in love with the sport.  So any chance I get, I try and play.  Odds are, if I am not at work, I am probably on the tennis court.

What is next for Waste Not? What does the future look like for Waste Not?

I think there are many exciting things on the horizon. There's an incredible team, putting all their hard work into action, ensuring that those in our community have access to fresh food and so food is not wasted. However, I'm sure there's a lot of food that isn't getting to Waste Not right now. With our community's needs at an all-time high, I want to ensure that Waste Not can rescue even MORE food and deliver it to those in need.

Finally, we must ask, what are you currently listening to?

I love all kinds of music, like country, 80s and 90s. But right now, I have been listening to Taylor Swift’s newest album [The Life of a Showgirl] repeatedly. I have been a loyal fan since her first album. I even attended the Eras tour, which was very fun. 

Waste Not is excited to have Pernick on the team and are looking forward to this new chapter of the organization. To learn more about how you can get involved with Waste Not’s initiatives, visit, wastenotaz.org/get-involved 

And to stay up to date on all things Waste Not, make sure to follow us on social media @wastenotaz.