Job Openings

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

OPPORTUNITY
The Redwood Coast Land Conservancy (RCLC) is seeking an experienced leader to guide the organization through a transitional phase of growth and development. The successful candidate will oversee the implementation of a legacy conservation project on one of the State’s last wild and scenic rivers–a new preserve that both restores native flora and fauna and provides compatible recreational opportunities in areas to which public access has been historically limited. This position offers the opportunity to not only live and work on one of the most beautiful and pristine stretches of the California coast, but to advance land conservation and stewardship goals in partnership with a strong environmental community, an active corps of volunteers, and a diversified and committed donor base.

ABOUT US
The RCLC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit land trust founded in 1992. It has a volunteer Board of Directors, and many active community volunteers who work on projects from public outreach and social media campaigns to fundraising and property maintenance. The Conservancy manages four scenic public access properties in partnership with the California State Coastal Conservancy and other funders. A recent major acquisition and the complexity of its management and conservation signals a significant shift from a small land trust to one that requires the addition of professional staff and specialized expertise. The Executive Director will be the primary employee of the organization, with part-time or full-time staff and consultants added as needed and as budget allows.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Executive Director, under the direction of the Board, will have oversight responsibility for all RCLC operations, including administration, fundraising, finance, acquisition, stewardship, community relations, and public access. This person will serve as the public face of the organization and will be expected to build and sustain collaborative relations with conservation partners, local and regional leaders, tribal and governmental agencies, volunteers, and current and prospective supporters to advance RCLC visibility and development goals.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Leadership and Strategic Planning: Be a visible and collaborative leader who effectively represents RCLC in the community and inspires support for the land trust’s work. Collaborate with the Board, staff, and community partners to establish priorities and implement organizational strategies consistent with RCLC’s evolving mission, vision, and conservation responsibilities. Coordinate and manage the Land Trust Alliance accreditation process.
  • Development and Fundraising: Oversee and coordinate all fundraising activity for support of RCLC operations, for implementation of conservation and stewardship goals, and for long-term sustainability. The Executive Director will establish and implement an ongoing development strategy, including active pursuit of government and private grants, foundation and major donor contributions, and design of capital campaigns and special fundraising events.
  • Outreach and Communications: Serve as the public liaison for RCLC and work with the Board to build the organization’s brand and reputation, name recognition and professional status with the public, non-governmental organizations, regulatory agencies, and other conservation partners. Lead external communication efforts to increase the visibility of RCLC and increase strategic media exposure. Oversee appropriate messaging, including public appearances, newsletters, website content, news releases, and social media, to connect people with the work of the land trust and report successes back to donors and volunteers on what their support makes possible.
  • Program/Project Management: In coordination with the Board and designated project managers, design and implement an integrated system for the monitoring, stewardship, and management of RCLC properties and programs. Administer contracts for professional services, monitor deliverables, and develop systems for measuring performance and program success. Oversee technically rigorous, cost-effective, practical, sustainable, and inclusive delivery of projects.
  • Government Relations: Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with local, state, tribal, and federal officials. Understand the current and pending legislative and regulatory environment as it pertains to land conservation, while ensuring compliance with the requirements of government agencies having jurisdiction in the coastal zone.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • Land and Resource Conservation: A firm grasp of land conservation and stewardship principles, including current statutory and regulatory frameworks, management practices and techniques, project planning, design, and delivery, and an understanding of real estate transactions relevant to RCLC programs. Successful experience in delivering and maintaining land conservation or resource management projects and programs that include compatible public recreational access. Familiarity with the ecology of the northern California coast desired.
  • Organizational Management: Executive experience in leading the day-to-day operations of a nonprofit organization of comparable size and mission, including prioritization and delegation of responsibilities, project monitoring, staff supervision, contract administration, grant management and reporting, and demonstrated knowledge of and experience with budgets and finances.
  • Development and Fundraising: Proven track record in successful fundraising and development for nonprofit organizations. Demonstrated ability to develop, sustain, and identify new sources and methods of financial support through active grant writing, major donor cultivation, and organized fundraising campaigns.
  • Communication: Ability to effectively serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, increasing public awareness through community outreach efforts, and forging cooperative relationships with stakeholders, conservation partners, and the public to advance RCLC goals. Requires excellent oral and written communication skills; effective messaging through newsletters, the press, website content, and social media; proficiency in basic computer software programs; and a good understanding of database management applications for donor cultivation.
  • Leadership and Strategic Thinking: Experience in leading, inspiring, and motivating boards, staff, volunteers, and external conservation partners to both define and work toward common goals and objectives. Requires familiarity with the strategic planning process and team-building methods. Ability to assist the Board in its ongoing assessment of opportunities and constraints, and the crafting of policies to guide RCLC through this transitional period of growth and development.
  • Education and Experience: The successful candidate must possess the knowledge, skills and experience described above. A bachelor’s or advanced degree in land conservation, natural resource management, business, law, or a related field is desired, but not required. An applicant with exceptional experience in the position requirements noted above is strongly encouraged to apply.

COMPENSATION
Salary is commensurate with knowledge, abilities, and experience. This is a full-time exempt position. Benefits include paid vacation and a health insurance stipend.

TO APPLY:
Email your resume, letter of interest, and salary requirements to rclc@rclc.org with RCLC Hiring Committee in the subject line. This opening is available immediately and will remain open until filled, but responses are requested by May 31, 2022.

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