Executive Director

Seattle Audubon values and protects birds and the natural environment of the Pacific Northwest. We provide conservation leadership, environmental education for all ages, and opportunities for members and the public to enjoy and learn about birds and nature. Founded in 1916, Seattle Audubon now has an array of diverse programming, 5500 member households, a staff of 14, more than 700 volunteers, and an active Board of Directors.

The Executive Director is the chief administrative officer of the Seattle Audubon Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Executive Director manages the operations, staff and finances of the organization, and is responsible for implementing the mission and helping to create and execute the strategic plan. The Executive Director is responsible for developing and managing the resources necessary to advance the mission of the organization. 

This is a full-time position, hired and supervised by the President of the Seattle Audubon Board of Directors. We will begin reviewing resumes on February 1, 2006. 

General Responsibilities

- Work with the Board of Directors and staff to set the vision, define the values and develop strategic plans for the organization
- Manage all staff and programs and oversee all functions of the organization, ensuring the implementation of strategic goals and priorities
- Manage the budget and finances of the organization to meet financial goals, working with the Treasurer to provide financial reports for the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for their financial oversight
- Lead a comprehensive fundraising program to attract contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations
- Represent Seattle Audubon in a positive and professional manner to members and donors, and all other key audiences such as elected and appointed officials, community groups, and other conservation organizations
- Work with a broad volunteer base to help further the organization's goals and provide rewarding volunteer experiences
- Serve as liaison with other Audubon organizations 

Preferred Qualifications 

Bachelor's degree in appropriate field required. Master's degree or higher in nonprofit management or a related field from an accredited program preferred. Experience and knowledge of educational and conservation programs with diverse communities and ages. Experience in advocacy appropriate to Seattle Audubon mission. Personal and professional commitment to environmental protection and conservation. 

Core competencies 

- Uses effective personal and interpersonal behaviors
- Creates vision and establishes direction
- Builds a competent, diverse, motivated and empowered workforce
- Endeavors to complete all work in an environmentally sound manner, with concern and respect for others, and within the current bylaws of Seattle Audubon
- Demonstrates initiative in bringing new ideas and energy to the operation and productivity of the organization
- Demonstrates both passion and a clear vision for valuing and protecting birds and the natural environment 

Duties

- Meet regularly with the Executive Committee and Board of Directors to review objectives and monitor progress, and serve as a liaison between Board and staff.
- Share in goal setting and strategic planning with the Board.
- Implement the Board's policies and recommendations.
- Help maximize the functioning of the board by clarifying and reinforcing roles and responsibilities, and by recommending, recruiting and retaining talented board members. - Keep the Board fully informed of all areas of administration, operations and progress.
- Work with the board to evaluate the progress of the organization as a whole.
- Oversee the development and implementation of internal policies. Obtain Board approval as necessary.
- Conduct fundraising, emphasizing external relations. Assist the Board in the development of annual fundraising goals. Develop and implement annual Development Plan and other one-time or periodic fundraising strategies.
- Oversee the general financial management of Seattle Audubon including developing the annual budget and financial reporting.
- Oversee operational management of staff and programs.
- Be part of a team of Seattle Audubon volunteers and staff who speak knowledgeably and enthusiastically for the organization and for the conservation of birds and the natural environment.
- Strategically promote Seattle Audubon positions and issues in the public arena.
- Manage relations within the extended Audubon family, working to clarify the role of Seattle Audubon, Audubon-WA, National Audubon Society, and Centers and work with these entities to further their mission within parameters set by the Board. 

Standard Functionality Requirements:  Ability to work in a normal office environment subject to reasonable accommodations. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Equal employment opportunity is the policy of Seattle Audubon. Seattle Audubon will administer advertising, selection, employment, compensation, promotion, training, layoff, recall, and benefits at all levels without regard to race, gender, color, creed, national origin, age, political affiliation, marital status, sexual orientation, physical, mental or sensory disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Seattle Audubon strictly prohibits any sexual, racial or other form of discrimination prohibited by law. 

Our Mission What we do... Seattle Audubon cultivates and leads a community that values and protects birds and the natural environment. 

Our Vision We do this because... Seattle Audubon envisions a healthy environment in balance with nature, where people enjoy, respect, and care for the natural resources that sustain the community of life. 

Our Values We succeed because... - We are moved by what birds reveal about the beauty and complexity of the natural world. - Our members, volunteers and staff are passionate, talented and diverse. - Collaboration and respectful dialogue characterize our work. - Both education and advocacy advance our mission. - Sound science informs our policies and programs. - We have fun and find it stimulating to work for birds and the environment.