Executive Director

Executive Director, Advocates for the West

Location: Boise, Idaho preferred tendersglobal.net Western U.S. flexible

About Advocates for the West

Advocates for the West is a nonprofit public interest environmental law organization dedicated to protecting the American West’s public lands, waters, wildlife, and communities.

For more than twenty years, the organization has advanced high-impact conservation through strategic litigation, science, and strong partnerships. With an experienced legal team, a deeply collaborative culture, and a strong financial foundation, Advocates for the West is widely respected for its thoughtful case selection, legal excellence, and durable conservation wins.

Following more than two decades of founder leadership, the organization is entering a thoughtful and well-planned leadership transition and seeking its next Executive Director.

The Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly regarded conservation law organization at a moment of strength and intentional evolution.

The next Executive Director will steward a strong, mission-driven team and trusted partnerships while guiding the organization into its next chapter. This leader will balance internal leadership with external presence, supporting experienced legal staff while strengthening fundraising, relationships, and long-term sustainability.

This is not a turnaround or rebuild. It is an opportunity to honor what is working and lead with clarity, care, and strategic vision.

We’re especially excited to connect with leaders who:

• Bring credibility in environmental or public interest law, conservation, or related fields (JD preferred, not required)
• Understand the role litigation plays in conservation impact and trust experienced legal teams to lead strategy
• Are strong fundraisers and relationship builders with donors, partners, and allies
• Thrive in collaborative, mission-driven, non-hierarchical cultures
• Lead with steadiness, humility, sound judgment, and emotional intelligence
• Have experience guiding organizations through transition or change

Location & Travel

This role is based in the American West. Boise, Idaho is the preferred home base, though exceptional candidates may be located elsewhere in the contiguous Western U.S.

Regular in-person presence across Advocates for the West’s offices and partners is essential. Approximately 15–20% travel is expected.

Compensation

Salary range: $215,000 to $250,000, commensurate with experience, plus benefits and discretionary bonus.