Executive Director

The International Association for Bear Research and Management (IBA) is a non-profit tax-exempt organization with a membership of ~550 professional biologists, educators, and others from ~55 countries dedicated to science-based conservation and management of all bear species.

Position Overview

IBA is looking for an Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization in an ambitious initiative to greatly expand programs in the realms of conservation implementation, scientific voice, and capacity building, thus improving its ability to execute its mission. IBA is an international organization and we value equality, diversity, and inclusivity. All employment hire is based on qualifications and organization need. We are committed to equal employment opportunities for all applicants.

The ED will have strategic and operational responsibility for IBA’s conservation programs. Whereas overall course direction and science-based conservation objectives are set by IBA’s elected Council (which serves as Board of Directors), the ED will be responsible for overseeing the administration of programs, implementation of strategic and conservation plans, and major growth in IBA’s financial capacity. Key responsibilities include fundraising, marketing, administration, and outreach campaigning. The position reports directly to IBA Council. A Director of Transition will support the ED with the day to day operations of IBA including internal and external communications, and will take direction from the ED. A volunteer treasurer (reporting to Council) and contracted accountant will support the ED with managing the finances.

Location: This is a home-based office position. San Francisco Bay and surrounding area is preferred, but there may be geographic flexibility based on a candidate’s qualifications.

Executive Director Responsibilities

Council Governance:

• Work with IBA Council in order to fulfill the organization’s mission.
• Provide strategic and operational guidance for leading IBA toward sustainable growth.
• Coordinate closely with IBA Council and Director of Transition to facilitate informed decisions related to the mission of IBA.

Financial Performance:

• Develop resources and partnerships necessary to ensure the financial health of IBA and growth in its programs.
• Serve as IBA’s primary fundraiser by developing and executing a funding program for IBA including identifying potential donors, tailoring of support models for prospective donors, and engaging with donors on the efforts they fund.
• Maintain the fiscal integrity of IBA, guaranteeing meticulous and responsible management of IBA’s finances by Treasurer.
• Coordinate with Treasurer to submit proposed annual budgets for effective programs and operations that maintain IBA solvency.
• Identify and develop new corporate, foundation, and, private funding prospects and apply for grants.

Organization Mission and Strategy:

• Work with Council, DT, staff and volunteers to ensure that IBA’s mission is fulfilled through regional and global conservation/management programs, funding development, and public outreach.
• Implement IBA’s programs as guided by a Strategic Development Plan.
• Enhance the standing and raise the visibility of IBA in the scientific community, philanthropic sector, and general public.

Organization Operations:

• Oversee operation and development of IBA programs, and their volunteer managers, under the direction of Council, to best fulfill the mission of IBA.
• Work initially with IBA’s paid DT to implement the new Structural Development Plan. Upon successfully securing additional funding, be responsible for hiring the additional 2-3 positions as outlined.
• Develop a Communications plan for external audiences.
• Develop partnerships with other organizations to strategically enhance IBA’s mission.
• Coordinate with the IBA President to serve as co-spokesperson for IBA.

Professional and Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred.
• Three or more years of experience as a non-profit administrator, with demonstrated advancement.
• Willingness to commit the next 4+ years to fundraise and shape IBA’s sustained growth.
• Demonstrated track record of successful fundraising either through grassroots crowd funding or through HNW individuals.
• Mission-driven, energetic, and self-directed with good leadership skills.
• Financial acumen with budget management, preparation, analysis, decision-making and, reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to work with a Council, oversee/collaborate with staff, and attract and retain high-profile donors.
• Ability to convey a vision of IBA’s strategic future to membership, donors, staff, volunteers, and the public.
• High standard of ethics, integrity, and respect.
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations in the conservation nonprofit sector (academic, government, foundations, and industry).
• Strong organizational skills for planning, optimizing resources and time, program development, task facilitation, and volunteer coordination.
• Ability to engage volunteers, manage people, attract and retain talented staff.
• Strong public speaking and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work with volunteers.
• Proven experience in marketing, communications, and digital initiatives.
• Fluent in English language; ability to communicate in a 2nd language is an asset.

Compensation: Position is full time and funded for 1-year. Funding beyond the first year is dependent on the candidate’s fundraising while employed; competitive salary commensurate with experience and other qualifications.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply" below to email your resume and cover letter detailing their interest in the IBA and its mission.
• Please explain how you meet the criteria for the position and why you are applying.
• Email your materials in PDF format to with “Executive Director” in the subject line. Application deadline is August 15th, 2019 midnight AKDT. 
• Only the most qualified applicants will be contacted for a Skype interview.
• The incumbent is expected to start the position in October 2019. Candidate must be eligible to work in the US.