Executive Director – Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council

The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council is seeking an Executive Director to lead its operations in Galveston, TX. The role involves strategic leadership, program management, financial oversight, and community engagement to promote nature-based tourism. Key responsibilities include developing strategic plans, managing staff, overseeing events, fundraising, and representing the organization to stakeholders. This is a full-time position based in Galveston, TX.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – GALVESTON ISLAND NATURE TOURISM COUNCIL

Location: Galveston, TX | Full-Time Employee

About Us:

The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council (GINTC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting nature-based tourism on Galveston Island. We connect people with the island’s unique ecosystems and wildlife through educational programs, community engagement, and conservation efforts. Signature events such as FeatherFest, Holiday with the Cranes, and Sea Turtle Saturday showcase the island’s natural beauty while fostering a love for conservation and responsible tourism.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director (ED) is the key leadership position within GINTC, responsible for overseeing the organization’s operations, financial health, program development, and strategic initiatives. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will implement policies, manage staff, coordinate events, engage with stakeholders, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization.

Key Responsibilities:
• Strategic Leadership & Governance
• Work with the Board of Directors to develop and execute GINTC’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.
• Maintain transparent and ongoing communication with the Board, providing regular reports on financials, operations, and program effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all nonprofit regulations, bylaws, and ethical guidelines while fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Program & Event Management
• Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of GINTC’s signature programs, including but not limited to:
• FeatherFest (one of the largest birding festivals in the region)
• Holiday with the Cranes
• Sea Turtle Saturday
• Winter Nature Program
• Parks for Pollinators
• Monthly EEL outings
• Collaborate with local and regional conservation groups, tourism organizations, city/state government, and community partners to expand educational outreach efforts.
• Financial Management & Fundraising
• Develop and manage GINTC’s annual budget in collaboration with the Treasurer to ensure financial stability and sustainability.
• Lead fundraising initiatives, including grant writing, donor relations, sponsorship acquisition, and membership development.
• Identify new funding opportunities through partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and earned revenue strategies.
• Community Engagement & Public Relations
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for GINTC, representing the organization to the public, media, government agencies, and tourism partners.
• Build and maintain relationships with Galveston’s nature tourism community, conservation organizations, local businesses, and city leaders.
• Oversee the organization’s digital presence, including website updates, social media content, newsletters, and marketing materials.
• Operations & Staff Management
• Supervise and support a small team and volunteers, ensuring an efficient, mission-driven work environment.
• Recruit, train, and manage volunteers for special events and programs.
• Oversee the maintenance and organization of records, files, and archives to ensure compliance with nonprofit best practices.
• Contract & Risk Management
• Negotiate and oversee contracts related to events, partnerships, and operational services, ensuring compliance with legal and financial guidelines.
• Identify and mitigate risks that could impact GINTC’s reputation, finances, or long-term sustainability.

Qualifications & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, environmental science, business administration, or a related field.
• 5-10 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, event planning, nature tourism, or environmental education.
• Proven experience in budget management, fundraising, and grant writing.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage a small but dynamic team.
• Knowledge of Galveston’s natural environment, wildlife, and conservation efforts is a strong plus

HOW TO APPLY

If interested in applying for our Executive Director position, please email your resume and cover letter (optional) to apply@gintc.org. We will be accepting resumes until April 4.