Executive Director, Westport River Watershed Alliance

Job Description

Job Description

Westport River Watershed Alliance Seeks Executive Director

About Westport River Watershed Alliance

Born in 1976 from a citizen-led effort to protect the East Branch of the Westport River, the Westport River Watershed Alliance ("WRWA") has grown from a small grassroots group into a leading environmental nonprofit with over 1,500 members. For nearly five decades, WRWA has been a trusted voice for clean water, healthy ecosystems, and community stewardship across the Westport River Watershed.

Through science-based monitoring, education, and advocacy, WRWA inspires residents of all ages to protect and enjoy the natural resources that define their community. Each year, WRWA programs engage more than 2,000 students in local schools and hundreds of families through outdoor education and hands-on watershed activities. Ongoing scientific initiatives - such as water quality monitoring and studies of salt marsh and pond health - guide WRWA's advocacy and inform local decision-making.

Rooted in collaboration, WRWA partners with residents, educators, and government leaders. Guided by science and community values, WRWA continues to serve as a regional model for grassroots environmental leadership. By w orking together to protect and preserve the Westport River Watershed now and for future generations, WRWA strives to create a healthy watershed where people, wildlife, and the River thrive.

Highlights of WRWA's work include :

• Science and Advocacy - WRWA strives to provide the scientific basis for policies and actions to ensure clean water and a healthy watershed and advocates for responsible solutions and best management practices with local, state, and federal regulators who are making critical decisions for our environment.
• Education - WRWA connects children and adults to the Westport River and its watershed through hands-on, interactive experiences in classrooms, along the river, in coastal and upland habitats, and in the River Center.
• Community Outreach and Events - Annually, WRWA hosts several public events, including Electronics Recycling, River Day, a Summer Concert at Westport Rivers Vineyard, and a spectacular Summer Gala.

WRWA has a staff of seven, an annual operating budget of close to $800,000, and a $4 million endowment. WRWA is overseen by a 15-member Board of Directors comprised of community leaders and watershed advocates. After more than a decade of service, the current Executive Director has announced her retirement.

Opportunity Going Forward

The Executive Director will have the opportunity to lead one of the oldest and most effective alliances in the Commonwealth in the protection and use of one of its most beautiful watersheds. With nearly fifty years of history, more than 1,500 members, a robust educational program which touches all students in Westport, and a credible science program that sustains water quality (besides being the chief executive officer of this highly effective nonprofit) high priorities for the Executive Director include :

Profile of the Ideal Candidate

Desired Background and Experience :

Skills and Qualities :

Accomplished Organizational and Team Leader

Community Engager and Advocate with Strong Communication Skills

Experienced Fundraiser and Resource Developer with Financial Acumen

Environmental and Scientific Enthusiast

Adaptable Innovator

Comp ensation and Benefits :

This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position with a starting compensation range of $115,000 to $140,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. WRWA also offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes health, dental, and vision insurance (with a 75% contribution toward single coverage) coverage) as well as disability insurance, access to a 403b plan, and generous paid time off.

Application Process and Additional Information

WRWA is an equal opportunity employer and views diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence as vital guiding principles in its work. WRWA welcomes and encourages applications from visible minority group members, Indigenous persons, members of the LGBTQ community, persons with disabilities and others who may contribute to the diversity of the organization and reflect the diversity of the communities served.

Candidate must include a resume and a cover letter, both in PDF format, which describe how qualifications and experience match the needs and mission of WRWA. A background check will be required for finalists. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Upload required documents to : https : / / eostransitions.applicantpool.com / jobs / .

This executive search is being conducted by Eos Transition Partners consultant, John Tarvin. All submissions will be acknowledged and are confidential, and any questions can be submitted to John at : jtarvin@eostransitions.com.