Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREEN MOUNTAIN CONSERVATION GROUP, EFFINGHAM, NEW HAMPSHIRE

Green Mountain Conservation Group (GMCG) seeks a goal-oriented, strategically minded Executive Director (ED) to lead our organization into the future. GMCG was founded 27 years ago by citizen activists opposed to the siting of a waste transfer station over the state’s largest stratified drift aquifer at the base of Green Mountain. Since then, GMCG has grown into a highly regarded, science-based organization working on behalf of more than eight communities in New Hampshire and Maine that rely on the aquifer for their drinking water. Through our innovative research, education, advocacy and land conservation programs, GMCG has become a regional leader in inspiring communities to protect the aquifer and its associated natural resources for future generations.

The ED leads a skilled and experienced staff composed of three 30-hour employees, a part-time bookkeeper and two to four seasonal AmeriCorps members, and is responsible for overall management, fundraising, staff development, and strategic initiatives. The ED is also responsible for managing the organization’s $340,000 annual operating budget and for overseeing our headquarter facilities on the banks of the scenic Ossipee River in Effingham, NH. You will be joining at a key moment, as we seek to refine our strategic direction, expand our donor base, increase program-generated revenues, and deepen partnerships with local environmental groups. The ED will play a leadership role in engaging a volunteer Board of Directors in setting annual goals and identifying major donors to help meet the financial goals of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Work with the Board of Directors and staff to conceive and implement innovative, effective, science-driven watershed conservation programs needed to protect water quality and natural resources in the Greater Ossipee region.
• Serve as the organization’s lead development officer and work to secure major gifts and to support fundraising events and special campaigns.
• Facilitate collaborations with partner organizations on projects that align with our mission/strategic plan.
• Lead staff in implementing the strategic plan. 
• Track and regularly report on the organization’s progress toward meeting its strategic goals.

Development

• In coordination with the Development Committee, identify prospective private and public sector funders to expand our donor base, and establish and execute long-term and annual fundraising plans.
• Manage grant proposals and ensure that deadlines and deliverables are met.
• Create and execute a plan for increasing program-generated revenue.

Financial management

• Oversee the financial activity of the organization and meet financial goals set annually with the Board of Directors.
• Monitor cash-on-hand and short and long-term funding needs.
• Ensure proper management of investments, funds, assets and loans; control costs responsibly; and authorize purchases and disbursements. 
• Work with the Board Treasurer, Finance Committee, and bookkeeper to develop an annual budget and produce regular reports on the financial status of the organization.
• Retain and work with a reputable CPA to ensure the timely completion of the annual financial review and federal tax return.

Organizational Management

• Direct the day-to-day management of GMCG and ensure effective, efficient administration of all operations.
• Hire and supervise staff, evaluate their performance and provide on-going professional guidance and coaching as needed to formulate and prioritize projects in the program areas (currently: Water Quality, Education, and Advocacy) according to the goals of the strategic plan.
• Coordinate with the Land Committee and local land trusts to evaluate and refer land conservation opportunities and ensure that the organization is fulfilling its responsibilities as a steward of 2,600 acres of existing fee-owned lands and conservation easements.
• Ensure the well-being of all GMCG staff and AmeriCorps members through direct communication and team meetings.
• Annually evaluate staff compensation and benefits to maximize employee morale, retention and productivity.

Policy, Planning and Advocacy

• Proactively engage the Board, staff, and partner organizations to analyze, develop, and advocate for positions on critical legislation, legal challenges, regulations, policies and plans relevant to watershed protection.
• Present GMCG’s positions in letters, public meetings, and hearings and advise the Board of Directors on the role GMCG should take in the face of controversial issues and threats to the watershed.
• Serve as lead spokesperson for the organization, articulating GMCG’s positions as appropriate at public meetings, public hearings, conferences and other venues in coordination with the Board of Directors.

Community Relations, Communications and Marketing 

• As the chief spokesperson for GMCG, represent GMCG at private and public forums, including at meetings of local watershed municipalities, state and federal agencies, universities, summer camps, lake associations, land trusts, businesses, individuals and other nonprofit organizations.
• Work with the board and staff to communicate GMCG’s work and successes to the media and the public including writing, editing and approving press releases, brochures, newsletters, fundraising letters, and other outreach materials.
• Ensure the quality and consistency of all mass communications, including GMCG’s website, public presentations, public awareness campaigns and social media strategy.
• Ensure that GMCG’s mailing lists and databases are accurate and up-to-date.

Board Coordination and Support

• Actively engage and work closely with our Board of Directors, keeping them informed in a timely manner of all relevant organizational activities.
• Work with the Chair of the Board and the Executive Committee to develop recommendations and agendas for Board meetings and assist other Board committees as needed.
• Assure optimal communication between Board and staff.
• Assist the board with recruiting and training of new board members and volunteers.

Buildings and Grounds

• In coordination with the Facilities Committee, ensure the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of our headquarters, the Blue Heron House, and the Huntress House, our AmeriCorps housing.

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, Attributes

• At least five years’ experience working in the nonprofit sector in roles with significant responsibility.
• Fundraising experience with demonstrated success attracting major gifts.
• Strong management skills including budgeting, staff management and grant writing.
• Understanding and appreciation of local and state government policies, practices and procedures including municipal boards governing land use and conservation.
• Demonstrated record of collaboration and coalition building.
• Strong communication skills and public speaking experience.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing advocacy campaigns.  
• Demonstrated commitment to environmental protection through volunteer and/or professional service.
• Understanding of basic ecological and watershed principles.
• Previous experience working with a Board of Directors.
• Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to working with and inspiring partners, volunteers and donors.

Hours, Schedule, and Compensation

This is a full-time position with a salary range of $65-75K, commensurate with your demonstrated abilities. Benefits include health insurance, paid vacation and maternity/paternity benefits. Schedule is flexible but requires some evening and occasional weekend work. This is not a remote position, however, some remote work may be acceptable.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Search Committee at info@gmcg.org. No phone calls please.

Applications will be accepted until September 30, 2024 or until the job is filled.

Our organization seeks to build a diverse, inclusive workplace that supports dedicated, mission-driven staff. If you are excited by this opportunity but you feel you may lack some of the skills listed above, we still encourage you to apply. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences who are passionate about issues affecting water and land conservation in New Hampshire and Maine.