Executive Director

Olympia Ecosystems, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, seeks an experienced Executive Director to lead the organization as it transitions from an all-volunteer organization to a dynamic urban land trust with paid staff. After extensive growth of land holdings over the last three years, the organization is building administrative structure and expertise to deliver on its core mission: to protect, preserve, and restore ecosystems around Olympia, WA.

The Executive Director is responsible for leading the strategic direction and overall management of the organization, identifying and implementing short- and long-term strategic goals, and maintaining a positive and inspiring organizational culture.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Organization Management and Leadership

• Provides visionary and strategic leadership to carry out the mission and vision
• Recruits, hires, and supervises staff
• Ensures Board and staff compliance with policies, legal requirements, and financial standards
• Develops and implements strategic, fundraising, outreach, and conservation plans

Financial Management

• Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and reporting
• Manages fiscal operations in cooperation with the Board Treasurer and Finance Committee

Fundraising and Resource Development

• Develops and executes comprehensive fundraising strategies
• Cultivates and stewards major donor prospects including individuals, businesses, and foundations
• Researches and applies for appropriate grants

Conservation and Restoration

• Ensures the organization achieves its conservation mission strategically
• Supervises Restoration staff
• Builds relationships with conservation stakeholders and agency partners

Community Outreach

• Oversees all communications and outreach efforts
• Represents Olympia Ecosystems to volunteers, members, government agencies, and community partners

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 6-8 years experience in a relevant field, including 3-5 years in a leadership role
• Graduate degree in natural resources management, business, or related field
• Successful fundraising and grant writing experience
• Program management experience within a nonprofit
• Experience in or understanding of real estate transactions and land conservation practices
• Knowledge of conservation and restoration practices
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and justice

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Restoration Ecology experience or education
• Familiarity with Pacific Northwest conservation practices
• Familiarity with applicable real estate development laws and relevant Washington agencies