Position Overview

The Executive Director (ED) will provide visionary leadership and strategic management to advance the statewide mission of Upstream Minnesota. The ED will be responsible for overseeing the organization’s programs, communications, fundraising, and overall operations. They will cultivate relationships with diverse stakeholders, ensure financial sustainability, and effectively communicate the organization’s impact.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who is passionate about changing Minnesota’s culture by updating traditional environmental narratives and fostering constructive dialogue across divides.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Program Development

Working with the Board of Directors, develop and implement a strategic vision that advances the organization’s mission and goals.
Lead the design and execution of statewide, regional and local programs that promote narrative change and build bridges across individuals, communities and sectors.
Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, ensuring continuous improvement.

2. Communications & Advocacy

Serve as the chief spokesperson, effectively communicating the organization’s mission, impact, and goals to diverse audiences.
Oversee the development of compelling content for various communication channels, including social media, newsletters, and reports.
Foster partnerships with media, influencers, companies, nonprofit organizations and other thought leaders to amplify the organization’s message.

3. Fundraising & Resource Development

Develop and implement a diversified fundraising strategy to ensure financial sustainability.
Cultivate relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
Lead the preparation of grant proposals and oversee grant management and reporting.

4. Organizational Management & Operations

Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring effective and efficient management of resources.
Manage and mentor a small, dedicated staff of three, fostering a collaborative, values- and mission-driven culture.
Develop and maintain sound financial practices, including budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting.

5. Board Engagement & Governance

Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement organizational policies and strategic plans.
Provide regular updates to the Board on organizational performance, challenges, and opportunities.
Support Board development and engagement to enhance governance effectiveness.

Qualifications & Characteristics

Required:

Positivity & hope that change is possible (critical thinkers are welcome but cynics need not apply)
Ability to work across ideological, racial difference.
Excited and able to travel around the state and meet Minnesotans where they’re at.
Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit, philanthropic, or related sector.
Proven success in program design, fundraising, and communications.
Strong understanding of narrative change strategies and bridge-building approaches.
Exceptional communication, storytelling and public speaking skills.
Demonstrated ability to build and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Experience managing budgets, staff, and operations effectively.
Demonstrated to be adaptable and flexible in strategic approach and work style
Good facilitation and negotiation skills
Adept at rapid multitasking
Proud to be a Minnesotan

Preferred:

Experience in community engagement and narrative change work.
Familiarity and established relationship with foundations and individual donors.
Connections to urban, suburban, and rural people and communities across Minnesota.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range of $125,000-150,000
Benefits package, including healthcare stipend, office/technology stipend, 401k match, PTO and holiday pay.
Opportunities for professional development and growth.

Application Instructions

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to applications received by May 15.

About Upstream Minnesota

Upstream Minnesota channels Minnesotans’ love for our natural places into greater trust, connection and stewardship. We use storytelling, narrative change and community-based bridge building to heal our natural and civic environment.

We envision a future where all who live and work in Minnesota express their connection across race, ideology and geography through a unified culture of caring for our place and each other.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Flexible schedule
Paid time off

Schedule:

Day shift
Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

This is a Minnesota based position that will at times require travel within the state. Do you have the willingness and ability to travel around the state?

Experience:

Community Engagement: 4 years (Preferred)
Nonprofit Management: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: Remote

Upstream Minnesota

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