Executive Director

~ Aspen Valley Land Trust's mission is to permanently protect open land for agriculture, wildlife habitat, scenic enjoyment and recreation in the Roaring Fork and Middle Colorado River valleys. ~

From the high mountain area around Aspen to the remote regions on the flank of the Roan Plateau, Aspen Valley Land Trust's (AVLT) service area covers one of the most beautiful and popular regions in the central Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

AVLT was among the first group to be accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission and the first certified land trust in Colorado. In 2017 AVLT will celebrate its 50th anniversary, with a history of great success and a future of great potential. While emphasizing private land conservation of agricultural and habitat properties, AVLT also works with public partners to conserve recreation and open space lands.

Almost 40,000 acres, including the land along more than 60 miles of rivers and streams has been conserved and there is an increased emphasis on securing water rights, as well as water quality and quantity. The region's mix of world-class resorts, high percentage of federal land ownership, a thriving agricultural community, and intense pressure from population growth and recreational development provide an eclectic and high-potential working environment.

Position Overview 

The Opportunity: 

AVLT is poised to not only grow its portfolio of conserved lands, but is an industry leader in the areas of conservation practices and stewardship. As Colorado and the West continue to seek solutions to water shortages, the land trust stands to be a major influence in both water resources and stream health projects throughout the region. The new Executive Director will be supported by an exceptionally competent and stable staff of four. 

Responsibilities  

The Job: 

• The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors and staff and provides the vision, leadership and public face of Aspen Valley Land Trust.
• The Executive Director establishes the values, attitudes and standards that guide AVLT's relationship with landowners, conservation partners and the public.
• Responsibilities include the oversight of conservation projects, stewardship, staffing, legal compliance, financial accountability, fundraising and public relations. 

Qualifications 

Experience: 

• The ideal candidate will have a passion for land conservation.
• Enjoy working with a wide range of personalities;
• Welcome complex financial, legal and political challenges.
• Be able to communicate the importance of working lands, wildlife and plant diversity and the changing water resource environment.
• Experience in management, financial operations, land use issues and public process is desired.
• A Bachelor's degree is required; graduate degree preferred. 

Personal Characteristics: 

• Create an effective operation: An ability to get work done through others by establishing a clear vision and direction.
• Communicates effectively: Has an interest in people and their stories, and understands landowners' interests and perspectives. Is the primary media contact for the organization and works with communication with local, state and national officials to further conservation objectives.
• Manage an efficient operation: Good at figuring out a process to get things done, can see opportunities for collaboration, can simplify complex concepts, is entrepreneurial, and can effectively employ the talents and strengths of staff.
• Provide vision and purpose: Communicates an inspiring vision of the future importance of land trust work, talks about possibilities and makes decisions based on long-term implications.
• Establishes integrity and trust: Is honest, trust-worthy and straight forward. Keeps confidences, admits mistakes and handles difficult issues in a direct and open manner. 

Compensation: Salary range $90,000-$120,000 based on experience; paid time off; employer-matched Simple IRA retirement plan; HSA, employee health. 

Note: Closing Date: August 1, 2015 

To Apply 

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email (or mail) a resume, letter of interest, salary requirements and three references to: 

Board of Directors
Aspen Valley Land Trust
320 Main Street, Suite 204
Carbondale, CO 81623