CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AT WEST REGION WILDFIRE COUNCIL (RIDGWAY, COLORADO)

Chief Executive Officer | West Region Wildfire Council | Ridgway, Colorado

The West Region Wildfire Council seeks a dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our nonprofit organization. This leadership role requires a strong background in fundraising and grants, financial management, and organizational strategy. The CEO is responsible for overseeing programs, ensuring financial stability, leading fundraising, and promoting a strong culture of collaboration and teamwork. The CEO’s responsibilities are carried out in close partnership with the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Development

• Develop and Lead Fundraising Strategies: Create and implement comprehensive fundraising plans to diversify funding sources including individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and major gifts. Lead fundraising initiatives and campaigns, engaging staff, volunteers, board members, and the community to meet or exceed fundraising goals.
• Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: Cultivate a culture of philanthropy. Build and nurture strong relationships ensuring key donors feel valued, connected, and informed, and actively inspire long-term financial commitment to our cause.
  
  

Grant Writing and Management

• Grant Vetting: Lead efforts to vet potential grant opportunities that are in alignment with organizational goals, strategies, and mission. Ensure decisions regarding the selection of grants to pursue and proposed outcomes/deliverables are achievable from both a financial and programmatic standpoint.
• Grant Writing and Management Write grants for the organization. Work with the CFO to manage grant award budgets, deliverables tracking and reporting.
  
  

Financial Management

• Budgeting and Resource Allocation: Work in partnership with the CFO and Board treasurer to oversee the organization’s financial health, managing budgets, cash flow, and ensuring responsible allocation of resources to support organizational priorities.
• Sound Financial Decision Making: Make informed financial decisions that align with the mission, ensuring long-term financial sustainability while optimizing resources.
• Compliance and Regulations: Ensure that the organization meets nonprofit financial compliance requirements and adheres to relevant regulations and standards.
  
  

Leadership

• Visionary Leadership: Develop and communicate a compelling, clear vision for the organization’s future, ensuring that it remains aligned with the mission, and is responsive to evolving needs.
• Leadership Team: Work closely with the COO and CFO to provide executive oversight for operational, programmatic, financial, and strategic planning duties.
• Prioritization and Problem-Solving: Demonstrate the ability to quickly prioritize initiatives, make tough decisions, and tackle complex challenges with thoughtful, effective solutions.
  
  

Relationship Building and Stakeholder Engagement

• Stakeholder Relationship Development: Foster genuine, trust-based relationships with board members, staff, donors, contractors, partners, landowners, and constituents to strengthen community and stakeholder engagement.
• Networking and Alliance Building: Cultivate a broad network of allies, building strong partnerships and alliances across diverse stakeholder groups within the region, state and beyond.
• Community Action: Demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and mutual respect, empowering people at all levels to contribute to the organization’s success.
  
  

Communication and Public Relations

• Dynamic Communication: Use exceptional communication skills to be a persuasive spokesperson for the organization, engaging in public speaking, writing, and active listening to represent WRWC effectively.
• Brand Development: Lead efforts to enhance the organization’s external relations and strengthen its brand to increase awareness and involvement.
• Inspire Investment: As a fundraiser and relationship builder, use enthusiasm and clear messaging to influence potential donors to support the mission and work of the organization.
  
  

Leadership and Organizational Culture

• Mission-Driven: Be a vocal advocate for WRWC’s mission and lead by example, inspiring staff, board, partners, and the community to embrace the organization’s vision and values.
• Collaborative Environment: Foster a cooperative and inclusive work environment where diverse ideas are welcomed, and team members’ strengths are recognized and utilized.
• Authentic Leadership Style: Demonstrate honesty, flexibility, and transparency in leadership, empowering others while maintaining a hands-off, empathetic approach.
  
  

Learn more and apply