Executive Director

The Oregon Small Wind Energy Association (OSWEA), a non-profit trade association, seeks a dynamic executive director to help define the organization and build its member base.

OSWEA was formed in November, 2009 by a group of industry professionals and stakeholders to serve as the central organizing association for professionals, researchers, educators, students, and all those who wish to promote the use of distributed wind-generated power. It is our aim to inform the public of the benefits of small wind, establish best practices and training standards, and promote public policy that will spur the advancement of distributed renewable energy.

The Association supports the following core programs:

• Marketing and Policy Initiatives
• Member Recruitment
• Working Group Support
• Accounting

The Association web site, OSWEA, is currently under construction!

OSWEA was formed to address the growing concerns of small wind in Oregon and to serve as a forum for manufacturers, distributors, dealers, government agencies and other stakeholders to work together toward the development of new initiatives and supporting the growth of the small wind industry in Oregon. In order to better meet the needs of the growing membership the Board of Directors has determined that an Executive Director is needed.

Position Overview:

The new Executive Director will be expected to build the membership and lead the association as it advances its program goals in the years ahead. The Executive Director will work closely with the OSWEA Board of Directors. The position calls for a creative leader with outstanding strategic management and communications skills, as well as political savvy and a bold leadership spirit.

Applicants will first be interviewed by phone by the search committee made up of members of the board of directors. Successful applicants will be invited to meet with the Board of Directors.

Responsibilities:

Provide leadership to OSWEA and board in the development, management, and evaluation of programs and proper alignment of staff and financial resources to meet defined goals and objectives within budget. Ensure that programs are strategic, effective, and well coordinated internally and with allied groups and coalitions. It is hoped that the new Executive Director will become the principal spokesperson for the organization.

• Public Relations: Provide leadership to the Board to ensure strong representation of the organization to the small wind industry, vendor community, and other organizations. Speak at conferences and other forums. Develop and maintain extensive professional network across a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Development: Work with the senior staff and board on strategic planning, institutional development, financial growth, and expansion of membership and member services.
• Management: Manage volunteer and contract staff, consultants, budget, programs, outreach communications, and oversee all general administrative matters including the budget and financial operations, contracts, audits, and grant compliance.
• Communications: Oversee all communications including website content, quarterly newsletter, press releases, and publications. Provide strategic input in preparing membership communications, board and member meetings, annual reports, promotional brochures, and other marketing materials. Be the first point of contact for new membership inquiries and general questions.

Qualifications:

OSWEA requires a professional with experience in the renewable and nonprofit industry. The candidate should be comfortable managing volunteer committees and juggling multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced work environment. Candidates should possess the strategic and political savvy to strengthen and advance the organization.

The organization seeks a strong executive with a collaborative leadership style and with diverse nonprofit skills, a demonstrated record of successful management and experience, high energy, tight efficiency, excellent communication skills, entrepreneurial drive, and a strong commitment to OSWEA's mission. The candidate should have the ability to think strategically and creatively within budget limits.

A willingness to travel occasionally to attend conferences and meetings, is required. patience, imagination, good judgment, and a sense of humor are also qualities the association seeks in a successful candidate. Preference will be given to those with a record of nonprofit and renewable experience, academic accomplishment and who are located close to Portland, Oregon.

Compensation: This is a contract position, renewable annually. Contract terms will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Expected annual pay range: $20,000 to $30,000. No benefits or relocation allowances are provided. Candidate is expected to provide computer and internet access. The position requires a minimum of 20 hours per week.

To Apply:

Please email cover letter and resume (Microsoft Word or .PDF files only) to: Kip Barrett, OSWEA Treasurer. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE.