Executive Director

We are looking for a person with….

• Passion for the idea of working community forests and belief in their capacity to transform communities
• An energetic, entrepreneurial mindset that combines vision and analytical skills
• Clear competency in articulating a vision that motivates internal and external stakeholders toward common goals
• An inclusive, transparent, consensus-building leadership style both in and out of the public spotlight that inspires and builds trust
• Political acumen, able to navigate a complex social network
• A strong work ethic coupled with an optimist’s enthusiasm and a pragmatist’s desire for action

Specific desired skills

• Demonstrated success in planning and executing a fundraising strategy
• Demonstrated understanding of the legal, financial and ethical requirements of nonprofits
• Significant leadership experience and achievement in the private, public or non-profit sector
• A high degree of financial acumen; including budget development and management, analyzing and presenting financial information
• Experience working with boards, including meeting agenda development, identifying the appropriate decision-making level based on law and organizational policy, provision of timely and appropriate information supporting the board’s need to make decisions
• A record of accomplishment building partnerships, coalitions, and alliances across sectors, communities, and fields of practice
• A background in timberland management is relevant, but not required

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Establish and maintain a positive working relationship with the Board of Directors
• Assist the Board of Directors in identifying additional Board members to deepen the capacity of the Board to represent various stakeholders and increase its ability to fundraise and fulfill RFFI’s mission
• Develop and execute strategic plans with the participation of the Board and Directors including annual work plans to build the capacity of the organization
• Work with the Board, & forestry staff to advance the Stewardship Plan for Usal Redwood Forest
• Provide the Board with information and resources needed to carry out their work, promptly inform them of all business and policy issues and opportunities that may affect RFFI and recommend appropriate courses of action
• Provide timely and accurate information to the Board and sustain open communication required for a healthy partnership with the Board
• Lead the development of strong and effective working relationships at all levels of the organization
• Build and manage staff as required
• Recommend new policies for Board approval as needed