Executive Director

Wisconsin Wetlands Association is dedicated to the protection, restoration and enjoyment of wetlands and associated ecosystems through science-based programs, education and advocacy. WWA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization based in Madison, Wisconsin.

Position Overview:

The Executive Director has overall responsibility for seeing that the association fulfills its mission. S/he will work under the general supervision of the Board of Directors and work with them to create and implement strategic plans. S/he will direct all aspects of day to day operations and will be responsible for overseeing the budget. To do all this, s/he must be able to identify and successfully pursue opportunities to obtain long-term financial support for the association's programs.

Responsibilities

Vision and Planning:

• Provides leadership to cultivate a shared organizational vision among the Board, staff, and membership.
• Works with the Board to assure that the organization has a long-term vision and a strategic plan.
• Implements procedures to measure the impact and effectiveness of organization's work.

Fundraising and Development:

• Ensures that adequate funds are available to permit the organization to carry out its work by developing and implementing long and short term fundraising plans.
• Works with the Board and staff to identify current and potential funders, cultivate relationships, and increase organization's income.
• Works to develop and maintain a stable balance of income (i.e., foundations, members & donors, agencies, and corporate sponsors).

Organizational Management and Operations:

• Works with staff to prepare an annual budget for the Board's review and approval; monitors and administers this budget; keeps the Board informed of financial status of organization.
• In conjunction with the Board of Directors, develops, updates, and ensures implementation of by-laws, personnel policies, and other policies approved by the Board and ensures the organization complies with all local, state and federal regulations.
• Maintains a climate that attracts, keeps, and motivates a diverse staff and volunteer pool of top quality people. Manages and oversees recruitment, supervision, mentoring, and evaluation of staff and volunteers, and provides overall operational direction for programs.
• Reports regularly to the Board of Directors and appropriate committees on the status of internal and external issues affecting the organization.

Program Development and Administration:

• Oversees the development and implementation of programs and annual work plans to advance organizational priorities.
• Oversees development and implementation of communication strategies to inform government officials, agencies, organizations, and the general public about the issues of importance to wetland management and preservation.
• Ensures that collaborations and partnerships are effectively utilized to leverage resources and expertise in support of the organization's mission.
• Identifies and pursues opportunities to leverage membership support and build a broader constituency of support for wetlands.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven leadership and effective management skills including: experience managing organizational growth and change; strong strategic and financial planning skills; ability to retain, motivate and attract strong and creative staff, and demonstrated ability to work effectively with a strong Board of Directors.
• A degree (Master's preferred) in a science or conservation related field and/or 5+ years experience working in a conservation or land management setting.
• Knowledge and understanding of wetland ecology or work in a wetland related field.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and cultivate a shared organizational vision and an understanding of the connections and actions required to achieve that vision.
• Exceptional communication skills, oral and written, and the ability to innovate and implement successful communication strategies.
• Experience and working knowledge of public policy processes and public policy issues affecting water and wetland issues.
• Proven track record in fundraising, including both public and private funding sources. Experience working with foundations, members, major donors, and other funding sources.

Personal Characteristics

• An appreciation for the importance of wetlands.
• A flexible management style with an ability to respond to challenges and opportunities.
• Flexibility and willingness to work with staff to maintain sustainable work-life balance while achieving organizational goals.
• Intellectual curiosity, commitment to teamwork, appreciation of humor as a critical component of an effective workplace, and clear and open communication style.
• Outstanding professional and personal ethics.

Compensation: Wisconsin Wetlands Association is headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. Statewide travel will be required as part of the position. The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Closing Date: Applications must be received by August 17, 2011.

To Apply:

Please send a cover letter, résumé or curriculum vitae, and the names of and contact information for 3 references.

HIRING TEAM
Wisconsin Wetlands Association
222 S Hamilton St  Ste 1
Madison WI  53703-3201

Contact if you are having technical difficulties with your submission. No other telephone inquiries, please.

Applicants will receive confirmation of receipt.

Wisconsin Wetlands Association (WWA) is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a policy of non-discrimination in regard to age, ancestry, color, creed, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other class protected by applicable state or federal laws. This policy shall apply to persons served by WWA, to the employment practices of WWA, and to recruitment to the WWA Board of Directors. Further, WWA shall actively seek to include on its staff and Board of Directors persons from the principal minority groups present in the areas served by WWA, and members of all genders.