top of page

Executive Director

Deadline: November 30th, 2026

POSITION OVERVIEW

Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead our organization in achieving its mission of advancing sustainability within the Saint Croix Valley area. This individual will oversee all staff, contractors, projects, and operations. The goal of this role is to ensure SSMN's initiatives are effectively executed and aligned with our vision of building a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient community. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, contractors, and community stakeholders to drive the organization's strategic goals.

WORK DETAILS

Official Title:

Executive Director

Reports to:

SSMN Board of Directors

Oversees:

Bookkeeper, Grant Writer, Communication Coordinator, Green Business Leader, Program/Project Manager, Administrator, Volunteer Coordinator, Bird City Lead

Hours:

Approximately 80 hrs/month

Compensation:

$50.00 per hour or $4,000 per month

Location:

Hybrid (remote + in-person for events or meetings as needed)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Organizational Oversight

  • Provide overall leadership for SSMN, ensuring the organization fulfills its mission and goals.

  • Oversee all staff, contractors, and volunteers, ensuring alignment with the organization’s values and strategic priorities.

  • Support and guide the leadership team to ensure the efficient and effective operation of all programs and projects.

  • Foster a positive and productive work environment, encouraging teamwork, accountability, and professional development.


Strategic Planning & Development

  • Lead the facilitation of SSMN's metric driven strategic plan with the Board of Directors, ensuring that it reflects the organization's mission and vision.

  • Work with the Board of Directors to assess organizational performance, set goals, and establish priorities.

  • Clearly summarize, communicate, and facilitate the implementation of the strategic plan throughout the SSMN organization.

  • Ensure ongoing growth and sustainability by identifying new funding opportunities and partnerships.


Program & Project Management

  • Oversee the program and project leaders to ensure timely delivery and alignment with organizational goals.

  • Monitor program and project outcomes, providing regular updates to the Board and adjusting strategies as needed.

  • Collaborate with the Communications Coordinator, and extended communications team to be aware of communications operations, provide input to committee and team, and ensure effective coordination and implementation of community focused programs.

  • Oversee all program and project communications to ensure effective and efficient communication alignment with, and across, SSMN.


Organization Administration Support

  • Collaborate with staff to Manage the organization shared Google Drive and assure appropriate file and folder structure, along with storage, updates, and maintenance of all appropriate documents and records for the organization.


Financial Management & Budgeting

  • Manage the organization's finances, including budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring the financial health of the organization.

  • Work with the Treasurer and Board to develop and monitor the annual budget.

  • Provide leadership for all fundraising activities to optimize the annual SSMN fundraising strategy and ensure effective allocation of resources to meet fundraising goals.

  • Work to develop a Fundraising Plan (grants, events, donors)  that supports SSMN’s projects and programs creating financial stability for the organization and engagement with the community.


Stakeholder & Community Engagement

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, businesses, and partner organizations.

  • Represent SSMN in the community, advocating for sustainability initiatives and fostering public awareness.

  • Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, promoting its work to diverse audiences.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

  • At least 5 years of  proven experience in nonprofit management, including leadership, staff supervision, and financial oversight with the Board of Directors

  • Proven track record of developing and executing a metric-driven strategic plan

  • Strong understanding of sustainability, environmental issues, and the challenges facing communities in the Greater Stillwater area.

  • Experience with fundraising, grant writing, and securing resources for nonprofit organizations.

  • Prior experience as supervisor or manager of an organization, with direct reports.


Skills

  • Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate staff and volunteers.

  • Proven ability to oversee, communicate, and assure a positive human relations environment with multiple direct reports serving in various capacities with the organization.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to represent the organization to external stakeholders.

  • Strategic thinking with the ability to develop and execute long-term plans and goals.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

  • Knowledge of nonprofit financial management, including budgeting, grants, and financial reporting.


Technical Skills

  • Proficiency with Google Workspace, including Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet, Forms, and Calendar, is required.

  • Familiarity with the Givebutter donations platform or the Wix website platform is highly desirable.

  • If unfamiliar with these specific tools, candidates must demonstrate a strong ability and willingness to independently learn and adapt to new computer applications, as these platforms are integral to Sustainable Stillwater MN’s operations.


Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in related fields including: Nonprofit Management, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, Program Management, or a related field is preferred.

  • Relevant credentials such as CFRE certification are recommended.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree or certification in fields related to this position.

  • Previous experience in a leadership role of community-based environmental organizations.

  • Familiarity with the Greater Stillwater area and local sustainability initiatives.

  • Multi-sector work: research, government, community, public sector, and private sector.

  • Experience working with rural and urban communities.


Attributes

  • Strong interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to engage a diverse group of stakeholders, volunteers, and partners.

  • Adaptable and proactive, with a solutions-oriented approach to problem-solving.

  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the mission of SSMN.

  • Knowledge of Adaptive Management, conservation, and natural resource protections, with personal values in environmental and sustainability advocacy

  • Engagement with a rich, multicultural community. Our team values cultural humility, empathy, and active engagement with people from diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.

WHY JOIN US?

This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a community-focused organization that is dedicated to advancing sustainability and environmental stewardship. As Executive Director of SSMN, you will play a key role in shaping the future of the Stillwater area and ensuring that our initiatives create a lasting, positive impact for future generations. Join us in driving meaningful change in our community!

Sustainable Stillwater Minnesota is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that missions are best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

To Apply

Please submit a one-page cover letter, resume, and references outlining your qualifications and experience. Work samples or a detailed portfolio are not required but accepted. Attach no more than three supporting files.

Deadline: November 30th, 2026

bottom of page