Executive Director

ABOUT SYCAMORE LAND TRUST

Sycamore Land Trust serves 26 counties in southern Indiana to preserve the beauty, health, and diversity of the region’s natural landscape through strategic land conservation and environmental education. Founded in 1990, Sycamore now protects over 11,700 acres and maintains 13 public preserves with over 30 miles of hiking trails. Sycamore has been accredited by the National Land Trust Accreditation Commission since 2019.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sycamore seeks an experienced leader and manager to serve as our next Executive Director to build on 35 years of commitment to strategic land conservation.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Executive Director will provide direction and guidance for the organization’s 8.5-person staff, which includes a 3-person stewardship team and positions dedicated to land acquisition, education, development, communications, and administration. The Executive Director will work with the Development Director (currently vacant) to identify, sustain, and cultivate new sources of philanthropic support, including major donor gifts, foundation support, planned giving, and business donations. The Executive Director will oversee the fiscal operations of the organization.

The Executive Director must be able to provide leadership and identity for the organization within our service area. They will maintain and expand strong relationships with our members, land and easement donors, financial supporters, government officials, and foundation partners.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

Management and Planning

• Supervise staff while fostering a supportive collaborative environment that challenges individuals to reach their personal and group potential
• Develop and monitor an annual budget and provide overall management of the fiscal operations in cooperation with the Board Treasurer and Administrative Director
• Develop and work with the Board of Directors to maintain a strong, healthy, successful organization focused on the mission and strategic plan

Fundraising

• Hire the next Development Director (currently vacant)
• Work with the Development Director and Board on the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of major donors, business supporters, and foundations
• Oversee maintenance of the organization’s membership and annual giving program
• Work with the Development Director to create metrics for tracking progress towards short- and long-term fundraising goals
• Employ best practices and maintain the highest ethical standards in all aspects of Sycamore fundraising

Relationships and Communications

• Establish and maintain strong, positive working relationships with a wide range of partners, stakeholders and grantmaking foundations and organizations
• Represent Sycamore to a variety of audiences, including volunteers, members, government agencies, community leaders, and other partners
• Acquire knowledge of local and national issues related to Sycamore’s mission in order to serve as an effective spokesperson for the organization

DESIRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated leadership abilities, management skills and experience working with a Board of Directors
• Advanced education in a related field and at least 5 years experience working in a non-profit organization
• Experience achieving fundraising goals, including developing, sustaining, and identifying new sources of financial support
• Experience in the development of budgets and financial reports
• Strong organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities/activities, delegate effectively, and motivate others
• Excellent interpersonal skills, strong written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to the mission of Sycamore Land Trust

COMPENSATION

Salary range for the position is $85,000 – $105,000, based on depth and relevance of experience. Sycamore Land Trust provides competitive health/dental benefits, retirement and paid time off. This position is full-time. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Sycamore Land Trust is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, family or parental status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law.