Executive Director

Venture Outdoors (VO), by educating and promoting participation in outdoor recreational activity, seeks to create a sense of community among participants and a better understanding of and a deeper appreciation for the environment and wilderness among the residents of and visitors to Western Pennsylvania.

VO works towards this mission through the following:

• Promoting awareness of the region's outdoor resources;    
• Building a conservation mindset;    
• Promoting wellness through exercise;    
• Building a sense of "outdoor community";    
• Contributing to Southwestern Pennsylvania's economic development;    
• Reinforcing the idea of Western Pennsylvania as a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

By providing this unique form of experiential outdoor education, VO seeks to transform the Pittsburgh region into a place where the outdoors is an integral part of our culture, identity, and lifestyle.

The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive officer responsible for all phases of management, fundraising, and operations of Venture Outdoors. The ED is employed and evaluated by the VO Board of Directors.

Currently, VO has a staff of seven full-time and 25 seasonal employees and an annual operating budget of $650,000, which is projected to increase to $1 million over the next three to five years.

Education and Experience Required:

• Masters degree in Business, Public Management, Environmental Education, Experiential Education, Outdoor Recreation, or closely related field preferred;    
• Five years experience managing people;    
• Training and experience in outdoor skill instruction.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proven accomplishment in fundraising, in developing a fundraising plan and directing the efforts of a development director;    
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to write, speak, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences;    
• Ability to work constructively with other staff and to create a team environment;    
• Significant experience as an outdoor leader, with a demonstrated commitment to outdoor recreation and environmental education and proficiency in multiple forms of outdoor recreation;    
• Meaningful experience in administering and managing an organization;    
• High energy;    
• Collaborative leadership style;    
• Successful "future focused" leadership experience;    
• Strong marketing skills and experience.

Salary and Benefits:

• Salary competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications - annual base compensation range between $70,000 and $90,000;    
• 100% health insurance coverage;    
• Four weeks annual vacation.

To Apply:

Interested and qualified candidates may apply in confidence by submitting a resume, cover letter, and compensation requirements by postal mail, fax, or email to:

Dewey & Kaye
Attn: Venture Outdoors Search
20 Stanwix Street, 9th Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Deadline for receipt of materials is Monday, March 25, 2006.

Venture Outdoors is an equal opportunity employer.