Executive Director

The International Sea Turtle Society (ISTS) registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States in February 1996. Since 1981, this community of sea turtle biologists, conservationists, educators, and advocates from around the world has shared knowledge, built capacity, and promoted networks and collaborations to understand and conserve sea turtles. In addition to convening an annual Symposium, which represents a presentation and celebration of these efforts, the ISTS supports members’ activities through grant programs, global networking, and Society governance.

Lead a Global Conservation Network – The International Sea Turtle Society seeks to hire a committed and organized Executive Director (ED) to drive organizational strategy and growth, manage operations, and advance advocacy efforts for the world’s sea turtle research and conservation Society. 

The ED will (1) work closely with the Board of Directors and its associated committees to coordinate Board operations and execute strategic priorities, (2) oversee the day-to-day operations and administration of the Society, (3) work closely with the Board to develop and execute an organizational development plan for the Society including fundraising, and (4) develop and coordinate the Society’s communications and marketing strategy to ensure accurate and consistent messaging from the Society. 

This ED position is an exempt, fully-remote, part-time position (20hr/week; $50,000/year) and requires a minimum four-year degree, preferably in business or nonprofit management. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership experience, strong strategic thinking, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for advancing the Vision and Mission of the ISTS.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply" below to email a complete application (a cover letter and resume in one pdf document) to the ISTS Board Search Committee, care of Patti Gillenwater, President & CEO, and her team at Elinvar Leadership Solutions, by 11:59pm US Eastern time on Wednesday, 15 October 2025.
• Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. References will be requested as needed.

Note: Complete Position Announcement and application instructions can be found HERE on the International Sea Turtle Society website.

ISTS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, national origin, age, military service eligibility, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected category.