Executive Director

The Vermont Natural Resources Council is seeking an Executive Director to lead its organization during a period of growth. The ideal candidate will have nonprofit leadership experience, knowledge of legislative processes, and strong communication skills. Responsibilities include managing programs, engaging with the Board, maintaining membership, and ensuring financial management. The position is based in Montpelier, VT, and focuses on environmental issues and community well-being.
About the position

The Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) is seeking an Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization during a pivotal time of growth and expanding impact. The successful candidate will be a seasoned and collaborative nonprofit leader with a strong understanding of legislative processes, environmental policy issues, and environmental justice. This role requires exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, as the ED will be expected to lead with vision and authenticity in a fast-paced and complex environment. For over sixty years, VNRC has been a key player in maintaining the health and wellbeing of Vermont's environment, communities, and people. Based in Montpelier, VT, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit has a long-standing history as a convener in Vermont's environmental community, playing a crucial role in building consensus among diverse interest groups. VNRC maintains a constant presence in the Vermont Legislature, providing research and factual information on legislation, and serving as a watchdog to ensure laws are implemented as intended through education, advocacy, and litigation initiatives. The organization addresses a broad range of interconnected issues impacting Vermont's resiliency and health, including clean water, clean energy, climate action, sustainable communities, and a toxic-free environment. VNRC has strengthened its position through partnerships and collaboration, notably merging with Smart Growth Vermont in 2011 to support housing development and transportation options, and entering a strategic partnership with Vermont Conservation Voters in 2012 to prioritize environmental protection in the political arena. The new Executive Director will step into a role that presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in light of recent climate change impacts that have highlighted the intersection of environmental issues with economic and housing concerns, especially for low-income and marginalized groups. The ED will leverage VNRC's strengths, including a talented staff, strong financial position, and a powerful role in the legislative process, to continue protecting Vermont's natural resources and addressing future challenges. Key priorities for the new Executive Director in the first 12-18 months will include cultivating strong relationships with staff and the Board, engaging younger populations in conservation efforts, establishing connections with key constituents, advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, securing funding, and developing a strategic plan for the organization.

Responsibilities
• Manage and coordinate all programs of VNRC, ensuring organizational cohesion and direction.
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• Keep the Board of Directors informed and engaged in organizational activities.
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• Maintain and strengthen membership and development efforts.
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• Serve as an articulate voice for VNRC on all issues.
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• Assure the success of VNRC goals and strategies as identified in the Ends Policies.
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• Manage all aspects of the organization in compliance with Executive Directives set forth in VNRC's Governing Means Policies.
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• Develop and oversee long-range fundraising, membership development, and financial management plans.
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• Prepare annual budgets and work plans, overseeing judicious financial management.
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• Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective VNRC members, major donors, and foundations.
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• Provide support and constructive guidance for all staff, including hiring new staff as needed.
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• Develop and articulate VNRC positions on a wide range of topics and policies to multiple audiences.
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• Oversee the strategic use of litigation to achieve VNRC's goals and priorities.
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• Maintain regular contact with political, community, and organizational leaders in Vermont and the region.
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• Ensure that environmental justice and equity are central considerations in establishing priorities and crafting public policy.

Requirements
• Proven experience in nonprofit organizational management and strategic growth.
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• Strong understanding of nonprofit finances, including complex budgets and multiple funding streams.
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• Ability to foster collaborative relationships with community and policy partners.
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• Experience in environmental justice work and commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity principles.
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• Strong public speaking and communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
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• Familiarity with key policy issues surrounding environmental conservation and advocacy experience in the environmental field.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience in engaging younger segments of the population in conservation efforts.
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• Background in fundraising strategies and successful fundraising across various development areas.
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• Skills in mediating conflict among diverse groups to achieve shared goals.

Benefits
• Salary range of $110,000-$125,000 based on experience and qualifications.
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• $20,000 annual stipend for pre-tax benefits or salary.
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• Life and disability insurance coverage.
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• Simple IRA with employer match of up to 3% of salary.
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• Generous paid time off including 18 days of vacation (increasing to 24 days after three years), two personal days, 12 paid holidays, and sick time.
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• Hybrid work schedule allowing for both remote and in-person work.