Executive Director

Executive Director (Full-Time)

Geneva, NY (Hybrid Remote)

About the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance
The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance (FLWA) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit marketing organization dedicated to increasing the visibility and prominence of the Finger Lakes AVA, its wines, and its wineries. We serve as the unifying voice for the region, with a focus on trade and media outreach, workforce development, and strategic marketing.

Position Summary
The Executive Director leads all facets of the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance, working closely with the Board of Directors to execute the organization’s strategic vision. This role requires a dynamic and organized professional with demonstrated leadership in nonprofit or membership-based organizations. The Executive Director is responsible for overall organizational operations, stakeholder engagement, program development, financial management, and representing the FLWA across industry platforms.

This role is ideal for a strategic, hands-on leader passionate about wine, regional storytelling, and advancing the visibility of the Finger Lakes AVA on a global scale.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day operations and implementation of FLWA programs and initiatives
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and committees to execute strategic goals
• Supervise a part-time staff member and manage contracted vendors
• Lead organizational planning, program evaluation, and stakeholder reporting
• Ensure effective physical and virtual office operations

Financial Oversight

• Develop, manage, and report on annual budgets
• Oversee accounting tasks, deposits, and invoicing with external accountant
• Monitor monthly financials, expense reporting, and grant compliance
• Manage budget creation, reconciliation, and annual reporting

Marketing, PR & Event Management

• Work with Programs & Initiatives Committee, Board and Staff to develop and implement integrated marketing programs focused on trade relations and media relations.
• Coordinate and execute key programs including Riesling Camp, FLX Roadshow, and Vintage Report
• Serve as FLWA spokesperson and maintain strong relationships with media, partners, and trade
• Supervise and execute event planning, marketing material development, vendor coordination, and collaboration with external contractors

Stakeholder Engagement

• Grow and maintain Levy Contributor base and Associate Partner network
• Communicate regularly with member wineries through newsletters, stakeholder meetings, and program updates
• Represent the FLWA in regional and national wine industry meetings and partnerships
• Lead membership renewal and outreach activities annually

Workforce Development & Industry Support

• Oversee the development and execution of educational seminars including the Marketing Workshop and Wine Master Class
• Engage with regional academic and institutional partners (Cornell, New York Wine & Grape Foundation, Wine Trails, etc.)
• Foster a culture of collaboration and professionalism across the regional wine industry

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years management or nonprofit leadership experience, ideally in membership-based organizations
• Strong understanding of wine industry dynamics; wine knowledge or certification a plus
• Demonstrated success in managing teams, budgets, and strategic programs
• Excellent communication skills—written, verbal, and interpersonal
• Proficiency in digital tools including Microsoft 365, Google Suite, and basic marketing platforms (CRM, email, design)
• High level of professionalism, organizational skills, and collaborative spirit
• Comfortable with lifting up to 50 lbs and travel for events, including some evenings and weekends
• Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, communications, or related field preferred

Additional Details

• Location: Hybrid remote with office presence in Geneva, NY
• Hours: Full-time
• Travel: Occasional travel for regional/national events and meetings
• Reports to: Board of Directors
• Salary range: $63,000-72,000

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $63,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

• Geneva, NY 14456 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Geneva, NY 14456: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Geneva, NY 14456

Salary : $63,000 - $72,000