The South Kingstown Land Trust (SKLT) seeks a dynamic individual with proven leadership experience in the field of land conservation to serve as Executive Director. In this newly-created, fulltime position, he or she will be responsible for providing direction to the part-time staff of five and volunteer board of trustees to help implement the organization’s mission and strategic plan. With over 150 properties encompassing more than 2600 acres and a budget of $300,000, the SKLT is looking for an energetic and knowledgeable person to help meet the challenges of land stewardship in a way that engages existing members and the public in this crucial endeavor. Primary responsibilities include working with staff to conduct effective and collaborative implementation of programs, fiscal management and planning, organization and major donor fundraising, and representing SKLT in the community to members, other land trusts, town government, public and private entities and all relevant groups. The new Executive Director will play a crucial role as the SKLT seeks to build on existing accomplishments and broaden its impact on the community.
Background
The SKLT is a private, non-profit 501(c) (3) local charitable organization, established in 1983 and accredited by the Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission in February, 2016. SKLT protects farmland, coastal ponds, scenic vistas, forests, wetlands and other properties of ecological and/or cultural importance in South Kingstown, RI.
Mission
The mission of the South Kingstown Land Trust is to conserve and protect the natural resources and open spaces of our town for the enduring benefit of our community. In line with this mission, we envision the following future for South Kingstown: That farms, forests, streams, and wetlands will be permanently protected and will provide scenic vistas, wildlife habitat, clean water, clean air, and recreational opportunities and will enhance the quality of life of present and future generations of South Kingstown residents and visitors.
Executive Functions
-Develops and implements, in conjunction with the board of trustees, the long-term and short-term vision, goals and strategies.
-Formulates, directs and implements a comprehensive development program for SKLT encompassing all aspects of fundraising, including annual and capital campaigns, major gifts, planned giving, grant acquisitions and special events.
-Manages the financial affairs of SKLT ensuring accurate and timely budget reports and formulation of the annual budget.
-Promotes greater awareness of SKLT throughout the community through partnerships with other non-profit groups, educational initiatives, and enhanced programming. Acts as the public face and day-to-day spokesperson for SKLT with all constituencies. Cultivates strong media relations and publicity opportunities. Maintains a fresh and inviting website.
-Oversees the SKLT staff to ensure that all are working to achieve SKLT’s goals.
-Works with all relevant public, private organizations and groups to implement Mission.
Qualifications
The SKLT seeks a dynamic and visionary leader with previous employment in the conservation field and with a thorough knowledge of the issues facing land trust organizations today. He or she must demonstrate the necessary experience and ability to:
-Broaden SKLT’s sources of revenue and improve fundraising success.
-Manage a fiscally sound and smoothly operating organization
-Facilitate collaboration among board, staff and volunteers
-Lead SKLT to continued achievement of shared conservation and land management goals
Accountability
The Executive Director reports to the board of trustees.
Compensation will be based on employment history and relevant experience.
Interested candidates should send resume and cover letter to Search Committee, c/o Susan Lovejoy, sslovejoy@gmail.com. by June 15, 2016
For further information about the organization go to sklt.org
