Job Description

Job Title: Executive Director

Reports to: WII Board of Directors 

Approved Date: January 2024

Salary Range: $90,000-$105,000 Full Time

Overview:

The Wright Ingraham Institute (WII) envisions a model of integrated research and field studies the focus on complex interfaces between natural and cultural systems to open new paths to solving contemporary dilemmas. For the past six years, WII has served as a laboratory of thought, research, and dialogue. Its programs include field studies where varying perspectives and disciplines come together to debate and engage with complex questions facing the world today. The WII also offers a research arm called the Study Tank and provides small annual grants to other not-for-profit organizations that share our common goals and concerns. Please see www.wright-ingraham.org for more information about our organization.

The WII is still in its infancy stage as an organization and, over the past few years, the small and committed Board of Directors has helped to put a solid infrastructure with an accomplished administrative team. The current administrative staff comprises part-time roles including a managing director, program coordinator, grant writer, accountant, and web developer. A three-year strategic plan helps guide our work through the support of an endowment fund. Our short-term goal is to secure funding to grow the programs and build the board. 

The successful Executive Director will be an excellent fundraiser, bring a scientific analytical mind, be curious, and know how to design and implement programs effectively with impactful outcomes. It is important that this role aligns with our mission and shares the vision with the board of directors. 

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Performance and Viability: 

• Design and implement a fundraising strategy and plan to support the mission.
• Work with the Board of Directors to manage the financial stability of the organization. 
• Manage an annual budget and monthly and quarterly financial statements, which accurately reflect the financial condition of the organization.
• Ensure compliance with annual tax filings and other requirements, as needed.

Board Governance: 

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to fulfill the organization’s mission.
• Help identify and attract new board members.
• Communicate effectively with the Board and provide, in a timely and accurate manner, all information necessary for the Board to function properly and to make informed decisions.
• Identify, develop, and invite global representatives to serve as Board of Advisors (BOA).  The BOA will advise and help direct programming or other areas.

Mission and Strategy: 

• Work with board and staff to participate in strategic planning and community outreach.
• Is active and visible in the community to represent the organization and establish relationships in the interest of the mission.
• Measure and report on program impact; make recommendations for program design.

Operations and Program Management. 

• Oversee all operations and staff – programs, finances, grantmaking, administration.
• Network with potential partners and other institutions to implement dynamic programs.
• Create, design and implement programs successfully.
• Responsible for effective administration of operations; maintain databases for college/university network, donors/funders, etc. 
• Responsible for the hiring and retention of staff, contractors, and professional service vendors. 
• Responsible for accounting for Institute resources and reporting on quarterly and annual basis.
• Responsible for signing all notes, agreements, and other instruments made and entered into and on behalf of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven leader and strong manager with critical thinking skills
• Naturally curious and creative in problem solving
• Transparent with high integrity leadership
• Experience working, or interest, in scientific research
• Solid hands-on budget management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, decision-making and reporting
• Strong organizational abilities including planning, delegating, and program development
• Ability to communicate effectively with board, staff, volunteers, and donors
• Knowledge of, and experience implementing, fundraising strategies in the nonprofit sector
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong public speaking ability
• Great sense of humor 

Location:  There is no requirement for where this role is located however being based in the Southwest is a plus.  Board members are located across the country and board meetings are held in various locations. 

How to Apply

Job Categories: Ecology. Job Types: Full-Time. Salaries: 80,000 - 100,000.

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