Sheldrake Environmental Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that’s situated on the 60-acre Larchmont Reservoir-James G. Johnson Jr. Conservancy in Larchmont, New York, is seeking a seasoned and creative Executive Director to help foster sustainable growth and the highest quality programs.

The ideal candidate will have a strong, collaborative management style; the ability to guide a small, dedicated staff with many independent contractors; a talent for building innovative partnerships that help our organization bring environmental education to the community; and proven skills for cultivating and managing financial resources.

This is a flexible, part-time position (estimated average up to 30 hours per week), with a salary range from $40,000 to $45,000, commensurate with experience.

About Sheldrake Environmental Center:

Sheldrake Environmental Center serves both as stewards of the conservancy and as community educators. Our mission is to inspire awareness and action in the community and to preserve, protect and enhance local resources. Sheldrake conducts experiential nature programming both on-site and off-site, all led by expert environmental educators. These include school field trips, weekly classes, visiting-naturalist programs, Scout visits, birthday parties, interactive exhibits at STEM fairs, and numerous special events. Programs may be geared towards children, adults, and families.

Responsibilities:

• Provide day-to-day direction and leadership to the organization, ensuring alignment with mission and goals.
• Liaise with Board of Directors, reporting budget and operational performance at regularly scheduled quarterly board meetings or as needed.
• Propose an annual budget for Board approval; manage the approved budget, and ensure legal and financial compliance.
• Oversee contracts, bookkeeping, accounting and other financial and technology services performed by outside contractors.
• Liaise with schools to ensure coordinated and timely schedules for nature trips at a variety of local sites.
• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders, such as partners, funders, community leaders, schools, staff, and volunteers; provide stewardship for local land and community resources.
• Develop and oversee grants, annual appeal, and other donor and fundraising appeals.
• Hire staff and contractors; monitor and evaluate staff and organizational performance.
• Represent Sheldrake at public events, conferences, and forums to enhance visibility.

Experience/Skills:

• Proven management experience in a senior leadership role within a nonprofit, preferably focused on the environment or education.
• Strong background in fundraising, grant writing, partnership development and stakeholder engagement.
• Leadership skills to inspire teams, foster collaboration, and create clear goals.
• Prior experience working with boards of directors and supporting board recruitment and development.
• Computer proficiency including spreadsheets, presentation, and website software.