Executive Director

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

West Central Ohio Land Conservancy (WCOLC)

Part-Time (15-20 hours per week) | Grant-Funded (3-Year Initial Term)

Sequence, the industry's leading search firm for niche environmental and conservation related personnel, has been exclusively retained and is currently searching for a Executive Director for the Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM).

This is currently one of the region's most high-profile positions of its type.

An opportunity to find a long-term home with one of the region's most promising non-profits with mission of perpetual stewardship for natural and conservation lands.

A CALL TO CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP

The land tells a story - one of generations who have worked, nurtured, and depended on it. In Ohio, farmland and natural spaces are more than just landscapes, they are legacies passed down with care and intention. But, with growth and development pressures, these irreplaceable lands can face uncertain futures. The West Central Ohio Land Conservancy (WCOLC) helps to serve in partnership with landowners and as a guardian of these landscapes, ensuring that individuals and families who wish to preserve land for future generations have the tools, support, and advocacy needed to make that a reality.

Sequence has been tasked and is currently seeking a passionate and driven Executive Director (its first) to lead efforts to increase presence, grow support, and expand operational activities. This is more than just a leadership role - it's an opportunity to be a voice for conservation, a champion for landowners, and a bridge between past and future. Backed by an initial three-year grant, the position is focused on growing the organization's financial resources, elevating its impact, and paving the way for evolution of the role to full-time.

ABOUT WCOLC

West Central Ohio Land Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to preserving and protecting Ohio's farmland, forests, and open spaces. Working across a seven-county region (Allen, Auglaize, Hancock, Hardin, Mercer, Putnam or Van Wert), the WCOLC partners with landowners - primarily farmers - to create conservation easements that permanently protect their lands. Our work ensures that these lands remain unspoiled, preserving their natural beauty, rich soil, and ecological value for future generations.

With a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, WCOLC relies on memberships, donations, and conservation funding. Today they are seeking to expand the organizations financial foundation and presence to drive meaningful understanding of land preservation. The organization is striving to bring onboard a leader who believes in the transformative power of conservation, understands the urgency of protecting vital natural resources, and can inspire others to join their mission.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking a leader who sees conservation as a calling, not just a cause. The ideal candidate would be an advocate for the land, a relationship-builder, and an entrepreneurial thinker who can take WCOLC's mission to the next level. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in grassroots leadership, has a gift for storytelling, and can forge strong connections with donors, landowners, and community partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Be a Voice for Land Conservation

• Represent WCOLC passionately, advocating for conservation in meetings, presentations, and community events.
• Engage with landowners to help them understand how conservation easements can protect their land, legacy, and vision for the future.
• Work with local, state, and federal agencies to advance conservation policies that support agricultural preservation and environmental stewardship.
• Build strong partnerships with organizations like the Land Trust Alliance, USDA, Ohio Department of Agriculture, and regional conservation groups.

Grow Our Reach & Inspire Action

• Lead strategic fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor development, and corporate sponsorships.
• Cultivate relationships with major donors, securing resources to ensure WCOLC's long-term sustainability.
• Oversee digital and print communications, from newsletters to social media, to educate the public on the importance of conservation.
• Organize and participate in community outreach programs, landowner workshops, and advocacy events.

Expand Land Preservation Efforts

• Work alongside landowners, helping guide them through the conservation easement process and ensure they understand its benefits and long-term impact.
• Support stewardship initiatives, including monitoring existing conservation easements to ensure compliance and maintain strong landowner relationships.
• Implement new strategies to increase the number of easements and acres protected, using innovative approaches such as drone technology to enhance monitoring and advocacy efforts.

Lead with Vision & Stewardship

• Develop and execute a strategic growth plan with the Board that ensures the sustainability and expansion of WCOLC.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to set organizational goals and track progress.
• Manage budgets, financial reporting, and compliance to maintain operational excellence.
• Cultivate a strong volunteer base, engaging passionate individuals in conservation work.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Deep passion for land conservation, agricultural heritage, and environmental sustainability.
• Experience in non-profit leadership, fundraising, or community engagement.
• Excellent storytelling and communication skills—able to inspire action and build support for WCOLC's mission.
• Experience in grant writing, donor relations, and revenue development.
• Knowledge of land conservation tools, including conservation easements, is a plus but not required.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with the Board, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in digital marketing, website management, and social media engagement.
• Flexibility to attend occasional evening or weekend events as needed.

COMPENSATION & OPPORTUNITY

• This position is initially part-time (15-20 hours per week) with funding to support the role secured for an initial three-year term.
• The goal being for the role to become a full-time as WCOLC expands its funding and impact.
• Currently targeted at a base of $30,000 first year to $42,000 third year (to grow in amount with additional funding as a result of the roles efforts)
• Role is slated to be based in Hancock County Ohio, or within 45 or so minutes from there with ability to regularly work in the seven-county region.

HOW TO APPLY

We invite you to apply if you have a heart for conservation and a drive to make a lasting impact.

For immediate consideration, apply here, or through our corporate website at: www.sequencestaffing.com, or submit to:

Sequence Staffing

2008 Opportunity Drive, Suite 150

Roseville, CA 95678

Phone: 916-782-6900

Email: jobs@sequencestaffing.com

"Sequence: Where a handshake still means everything."