Executive Director

Wesselman Nature Society Published: August 18, 2017
Skill Level
Senior Level
Job Type
Full-time
Categories
CEO/ Senior Mgmt/ Exec Director

When you apply for this position, please say you saw this job on Green Dream Jobs!!

Description

~ The Wesselman Nature Society (WNS) is a 501c (3) not-for-profit, environmental organization. ~

We were founded in 1972 to protect approximately 200 acres of hardwood forest in Evansville, Indiana now known as Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve.  The forest is the largest tract of virgin forest located inside any city limits in the United States.

Today, WNS manages and operates Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve and Howell Wetlands. WNS is the future home to one of the largest Nature Playscapes in the nation!  Our community-oriented education and conservation programs are led by a talented and dedicated staff and volunteers.

Position Overview

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of WNS and is responsible for strategic thinking and implementation, ensuring all activities are aligned with our mission, leadership, fundraising, staffing, supervision and administration. Through guidance and approval from the WNS Board of Directors, the Executive Director has authority to lead and govern the operations to achieve its mission and strategic goals.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee all aspects of the Nature Center’s staffing needs, including recruitment, day-to-day supervision, leading and retaining employees.
  • Work with the Board of Directors and staff to develop and monitor policies for the Nature Center, and ensure their implementation.
  • Develop, in conjunction with the Board of Directors and staff, short and long-range plans for the Nature Center and strategies for achieving them.
  • Manage all aspects of the day-to-day operation of the Nature Center.
  • Oversee compliance with all federal, state, and local government requirements, including those relating to the Nature Center’s non-profit, 501(c)(3) status.
  • Oversee WNS annual finances and ensure a balanced budget. This includes developing, implementing and monitoring the budget, supervising bookkeeping activities, and meeting annually with the WNS auditor.
  • Plan for future revenue needs and resources to sustain WNS programs and operations through establishing and executing clear fundraising strategies, annual goals and detailed revenue development plans.
  • Work with Board to develop ongoing fundraising and development activities, including cultivating strong relationships with major individual, foundation and corporate donors.
  • Seek out and prepare grant proposals.
  • Lead the communication efforts of WNS including public relations activities and marketing of programs.
  • Provide direction and leadership in the development of all programs, exhibits, special events and other activities.
  • Oversee maintenance and improvements of WNS buildings, machinery, vehicles and grounds.
  • Adhere to the environmental demands of the old growth preserve and ensure the property is properly maintained.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Natural Resources, Environmental Education or related, relevant field.
  • Seven years of relevant and progressive experience working in a nature center or related organization in the nonprofit sector.
  • Three years of administration experience including supervision and leading staff, budgeting and fund raising.

 Candidates for the position will be able to demonstrate:

  • Strong leadership, communication, and people skills. 
  • Dedication and experience to a team approach.
  • Enthusiasm and focus without direct supervision.
  • Passion about the organization and its mission.
  • History of success in strategic planning, leadership, and execution.
  • Successful experience with capital campaigns, grant writing and fundraising.
  • Comfort and clarity with public speaking, working with diverse groups of stakeholders, and direct solicitation of donors.

Compensation: Total compensation including salary and benefits will range from $55,000-$75,000.

To Apply

Are you ready for an exciting opportunity at a wonderful place, strong mission, great community and dedicated staff?

If yes, please click "Apply" below to upload a cover letter and resume to Chair, Search & Screen.

Application reviews begin August 28th, 2017 and the process will continue until the position is filled.

~ Wesselman Nature Society is an equal opportunity employer. ~

When you apply for this position, please say you saw this job on Green Dream Jobs!!

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