Executive Director

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, one of the Nation's most successful urban natural preserves with a rich tradition of environmental education and stewardship, seeks a dynamic, creative, committed Executive Director to work with the Board, Staff, and Community to carry out our mission and vision. Information about the Nature Center's mission, vision, programs, staff, board, and history can be found on-line.

Position Overview:

The Executive Director will be the Center's chief executive officer, responsible for carrying out its strategic plan and assuring the continued success and stability of the institution. The successful candidate will have demonstrated an ability to inspire and lead a team-oriented staff, bring new and creative approaches to programming and fundraising, and communicate well with the Center's active board, local communities and fundraising sources.

Responsibilities:

• With the Board of Directors, staff, and community, develop and complete short and long range objectives to carry out the mission and support strategies of the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes.
• Recruit, inspire, and supervise, the Center's staff.
• In consultation with the Board of Directors, develop financial support initiatives and supervise the Center's development and grant personnel in pursuing sources of funding.
• Serve as liaison, and cultivate cooperative relationships with environmental, educational, and community groups, nearby municipalities, and the public.
• Lead the execution of the Nature Center's Natural Resources Management Plan, and increase sustainable practices for all aspects of the Nature Center.
• Lead the development and effective delivery of dynamic and diverse educational programs.
• Increase the visibility of the Nature Center in the scientific, educational, and general public community.
• With the Board of Trustees and staff, develop and implement policies and procedures of the Nature Center, including financial, governance, and personnel.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Develop long range plans for stewardship of natural areas and physical plant.
• Work closely with Board president to increase board skills, committee effectiveness, and participation by Board in all Nature Center activities.
• Carry out other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Board.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated commitment to environmental issues/education, conservation and sustainability.
• Ability to engage others in the Nature Center's vision and mission and to inspire action on behalf of the Nature Center.
• 5 plus years of experience in a management position of an environmental or educational institution.
• College degree in a related field.
• Demonstrated strong management and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to select, lead, develop, and motivate staff and volunteer resources.
• Experience with strategic planning, administration, proposal writing and fundraising, staff and volunteer management, and environmental education.
• Creative thinker and active outdoors person.

Compensation: Salary will be competitive, based on experience and qualifications, with a full benefits package. 

Start Date: January, 2009.
The position is full-time. 

To Apply:

Please send a résumé including at least 3 references with a cover letter describing your qualifications.

NCSL Search Committee
PO Box 181583
Cleveland OH  44118-7583

The cover letter or attachment should specifically address your qualifications in each of the areas outlined in the job description.

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is an equal opportunity employer.