Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation Executive Director
The Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation is seeking a full time Executive Director. The Laguna de Santa Rosa is a large freshwater wetlands complex on the northern California coastal region. In a state known for extraordinary biological diversity, it is located in Sonoma County the second-most biologically rich county. The Laguna’s 22-mile channel drains a 254-square-mile watershed and forms the largest tributary to the Russian River that encompasses the Santa Rosa Plain. The Laguna watershed is a mosaic of creeks, open water, perennial marshes, seasonal wetlands, riparian forests, oak woodland and grassland. It is home to hundreds of species of wildlife and plants including several rare and endangered species.
The Foundation’s Mission is to restore and conserve the Laguna de Santa Rosa and to inspire public appreciation of this RAMSAR wetland of International importance. In order to accomplish our mission and organizational goals, we collaborate with a wide variety of stakeholders including: public agencies, the scientific community, community groups, non-profit organizations, businesses, the agricultural community, and private landowners to restore and preserve the Laguna. Through our partnerships, the Foundation has restored a hundred acres of degraded habitat in the Laguna watershed.
Our educational programs and events inspire appreciation of this wetland of international importance and draw a diverse group of both children and adults to become stewards of the Laguna. We are building a financially secure organization by increasing support from individuals, foundations, and the business community through an aggressive fundraising program. Our Foundation community includes our Board, eleven staff, hundreds of volunteers, and members. For more information about the Foundation, visit our website at http://www.lagunafoundation.org
The Position:
The Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation is seeking a dynamic, articulate and experienced leader to serve as Executive Director (ED). This position will report to and work closely with the Board of Directors. The ED will be responsible for strategic planning and execution, partnership building in the public and private sectors and developing the funding base. The ED will manage finances, and develop strategies to expand program scope and sphere of influence and recognition. S/he will supervise an exceptionally committed staff.
Key areas sought by the Foundation:
At least 7 years of experience in a leadership and supervisory position in the nonprofit sector and experience in an environmental membership organization.
Knowledge and experience in strategic planning, organizational development, financial oversight, grant writing and performance management processes.
Dynamic presenter with exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Proven ability to inspire and secure leadership gifts from donors.
Strong experience with financial management, with sensitivity to non-profit budgets.
Ability to craft and implement new programs in a collaborative fashion.
Experience leading and inspiring a growing and highly effective team. Excellent relationship-building skills with diverse audiences. A professional customer-service orientation that leads to sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships with other non-profits, landowners and government agencies.
Significant expertise in environmental sustainability, wetland ecology, restoration and educational practices.
Computer literate with a Bachelor’s degree or higher; Masters degree preferred.
Flexible, adaptable and goal-oriented with a commitment to high standards of excellence.
Physical Requirements
Ability to move from office to field settings, sometimes via rough paths. Some bending, lifting up to 50 lbs, grasping. Requires capacity to navigate two-story building via stairs and to assist with occasional room set-up.
Compensation:
Salary is commensurate with applicant’s experience and qualifications. The Laguna Foundation offers a benefits package that includes medical benefits, holiday, sick and vacation leave.
Application:
Please submit an email to jobs@lagunafoundation.org containing a cover letter, resume with dates of employment including salary history, and names & contact information of at least 2 references that are familiar with and have direct knowledge of your work experience. No phone calls please. Only qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews, and the position will remain open until filled.