Executive Director

Position Overview Salem Sound Coastwatch seeks an Executive Director (ED) to lead our organization into its next chapter. You will be joining at a key moment in SSCW's history as we build on decades of conservation success and expand our impact across the North Shore. As the leader of our dedicated sta? team, the ED is responsible for overall organizational management, sta? development, and implementing programs and initiatives. Key Responsibilities Leadership ? Drive effective implementation of science-driven watershed conservation, restoration, education, advocacy, and community engagement programs. ? Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction in collaboration with the Board of Directors. ? Lead sta? in developing and implementing work plans that advance SSCW's mission and organizational goals. ? Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation among sta? and volunteers. ? Serve as the chief spokesperson and public face of the organization. ? Monitor and assess program e?ectiveness and organizational impact. ? Identify opportunities for program expansion and innovation that align with mission and community needs. Development ? Work with the Development Director and relevant Board committees to establish and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to ensure long-term financial sustainability of the organization. ? Strategize and execute SSCW's fundraising activities alongside the Development Director to foster relationships with individual donors, foundation o?icers, and corporate sponsors. ? Cultivate and steward deep relationships with current and prospective donors to secure major gifts. ? Oversee fundraising events, annual giving and special campaigns, and donor communications. Management ? Direct the day-to-day management of SSCW and ensure the e?ective and e?icient administration of all internal operations. ? Supervise sta? members and evaluate their performance. ? Provide ongoing professional guidance, development, and coaching. ? Administer personnel policies; recruit, hire, and retain sta? needed to advance the strategic plan. ? Ensure scientific integrity and quality in research and monitoring programs. ? Undertake direct program work in special projects as appropriate (i.e. coastal resilience grants). ? Foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive workplace culture. ? Manage employee compensation, benefits, and compliance. Ensure organizational compliance with all legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations. Policy and Advocacy ? Proactively engage Board, sta?, and partner organizations to analyze, develop, and advocate for positions on relevant legislation, legal challenges, regulations, policies, and plans at the municipal, state, regional or national level, as appropriate and in coordination with the Board. ? Present SSCW's position in comment letters, public meetings, and hearings. ? Ensure that any SSCW advocacy e?orts are grounded in sound science and aligned with organizational mission. Community Relations ? As the chief spokesperson for SSCW, represent the organization at private and public forums. ? Develop strong relationships with people and communities who represent the demographic diversity within the watershed. ? Communicate SSCW's work and successes through multiple channels. ? Ensure that SSCW maintains strong relations with and is properly represented among various constituencies, including local, state, and federal o?icials and agencies. Finance and Budgeting ? Work with the Board’s Treasurer, Finance Committee, and relevant sta? to develop an annual budget and track the budget over the fiscal year. ? Oversee all financial operations, records, and reports, including managing relevant contractors. ? Ensure proper operational management of investments, funds, and assets; control costs responsibly. ? Authorize purchases and disbursements. ? Ensure timely completion of annual audit and tax filings, legal compliance, and annual reporting to the Board. Grants and Contracts ? Manage all grant, contract, and vendor relationships, and relevant insurance requirements. ? Provide oversight to sta? in the development of high-quality grant applications. Prepare grant proposals and reports in partnership with staff and Board as relevant. ? Execute grant and contract agreements, ensuring fulfillment of all requirements, including timely reporting to all funders. Board Coordination ? Actively engage and work closely with the Board of Directors through email contact and Board meetings. SSCW Board meets 10 times per year, and the Executive Director is expected to attend all meetings. ? Work with the Board President to develop agendas for Board meetings. ? Assure optimal and appropriate communication between Board and sta?. ? Support Board development, recruitment, and engagement. Program Oversight ? Oversee all programmatic activities including School to Sea, Field Research & Studies, Municipal Guidance, and Community Engagement initiatives ? Ensure scientific integrity and quality in research and monitoring programs. Other Duties ? Perform other duties as may be assigned by the Board of Directors. Qualifications Education ? Degree in Environmental Science, Marine Science, Education, Environmental Management, Business Management, Communications, Law, or related field is required for consideration. ? Advanced degree in a related field is preferred. Comparable level of progressive and related work experience may be considered in lieu of degree. Experience ? Minimum 7 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, environmental organizations, or related fields. ? Significant fundraising experience with a demonstrated level of success, with particular focus on individual donors at the major gift level. ? Nonprofit management experience including budgeting, sta? management, and general administration. ? Demonstrated success with grant management, individual donors, and diverse revenue streams. ? Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop sta?, and mobilize volunteers. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $90,000 - $110,000 commensurate with experience. Benefits: Generous paid time o?, and professional development opportunities. Schedule: Full-time position with some evening and occasional weekend work. While not a remote work position, some remote work may be acceptable. The Executive Director is expected to be on-site frequently, with flexibility for responsibilities that require work in the field, with partners, or in the community. To Apply Send to Board@salemsound.org: 1. Cover letter describing your interest in the position and relevant qualifications. 2. Current resume or CV 3. Names and contact information for three professional references (references will not be contacted without prior notice) Subject Line: Executive Director Application Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; priority consideration to applications received by February 20, 2026. Anticipated Start Date: May 2026 Salem Sound Coastwatch is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.