The St. Louis River Alliance is seeking an Executive Director to lead our organization into its next chapter of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and organizational growth.
This is an opportunity to bring people together around a shared commitment to the St. Louis River and the communities, wildlife, and ecosystems that depend on it.
Position Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the St. Louis River Alliance, guiding the organization’s mission, operations, financial sustainability, and community impact. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director works collaboratively with board members, staff, partners, donors, and community stakeholders to advance the organization’s environmental and community-focused initiatives.
This position is ideal for a mission-driven leader with strong nonprofit management experience, strategic vision, fundraising expertise, and a passion for community engagement, partnership development, organizational growth, and employee wellbeing.
The Executive Director will foster a collaborative and supportive workplace culture that prioritizes employee wellbeing, professional development, inclusion, and work-life balance while advancing the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
Mission: The St. Louis River Alliance is a membership organization committed to supporting the resiliency of the St. Louis River. As river stewards we are the voice of the river, working together to protect, restore and enhance the St. Louis River.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership & Strategy
Lead the implementation of the mission, strategic priorities, and long-term goals of the St. Louis River Alliance.
Collaborate with the Board of Directors on strategic planning, policy development, and organizational growth initiatives.
Develop and implement strategic plans that support the long-term sustainability and impact of the organization.
Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Alliance to constituents, community partners, media outlets, and the general public.
Enhance the visibility and public image of the organization through outreach, advocacy, partnerships, and community engagement.
Foster a positive organizational culture that supports employee wellbeing, collaboration, transparency, and professional growth.
Board Governance & Collaboration
Report to and work closely with the Board of Directors to support informed decision-making and active board involvement in fundraising, policy development, and organizational visibility.
Provide timely and accurate reports, financial updates, and operational information to the Board.
Oversee and support Board and committee meetings, including preparation of materials and follow-up actions.
Financial Management & Fundraising
Develop, manage, and oversee the organization’s annual operating budget.
Ensure sound fiscal management practices and maintain the financial health of the organization.
Lead fundraising initiatives, donor cultivation, grant development, sponsorship efforts, and other revenue-generating activities.
Monitor financial performance and ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
Operations & Staff Leadership
Supervise, support, and collaborate with staff to foster a productive, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace culture.
Promote employee wellbeing through supportive leadership practices, open communication, flexibility, and professional development opportunities.
Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure effective administration of the organization.
Establish and maintain employment policies, administrative procedures, and operational systems necessary for organizational success.
Review and approve contracts, agreements, and service-related commitments on behalf of the organization.
Support staff development, retention, and organizational effectiveness.
Community Engagement & Communications
Build and maintain strong relationships with partner organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and community stakeholders.
Utilize strategic partnerships to strengthen and expand the St. Louis River Alliance mission and community impact.
Oversee marketing, communications, branding, and public relations efforts to increase awareness and engagement.
Required Qualifications (Must-Haves)
Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration, environmental studies, business administration, or a related field
Experience in environmental, watershed, conservation, or community-based nonprofit organizations
Budgeting, financial and strategic planning experience
Grant writing, management and reporting experience with foundation, state and federal grants
Quickbooks, Google Suite, Microsoft Office working knowledge
Minimum 5 years of leadership or senior management experience in a nonprofit, public sector, or mission-driven organization
Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, and revenue development
Partnership building skills
Experience managing organizational budgets and financial operations
Strong leadership, communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills
Experience working collaboratively with a Board of Directors
Demonstrated ability to build positive workplace culture and support employee wellbeing and engagement
Ability to manage multiple priorities, lead strategic initiatives, and work effectively with diverse stakeholders
Familiarity with nonprofit HR practices, policy development, and organizational governance
Preferred Qualifications (Nice-to-Haves)
Master’s degree in a related field
Working knowledge of Constant Contact, Little Green Light and/or CRM software
Knowledge of regional social and environmental issues affecting the St. Louis River watershed
Networking and relationships within the Estuary and understanding of the Area Of Concern process
Environmental justice, community engagement, antiracism training
Understanding of Ojibwe culture and history and tribal relations
Experience in public relations, advocacy, or government relations
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
Benefits package may include:
Paid time off and holidays
Flexible scheduling opportunities
Professional development support
Health and retirement benefits
Supportive and collaborative work environment
Salary Range: $70,000 - $75,000; health insurance stipend; 3% IRA match; paid time off.
Location & Job Type
Location: Duluth, Minnesota / St. Louis River region
Job Type: Full-time
Work Environment: Hybrid or on-site, depending on organizational needs
Schedule and Physical Requirements: Flexibility to attend occasional evening meetings and weekend events is required. The role may also involve occasional lifting or moving of event materials, supplies, or equipment, with assistance as needed.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
A one page cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position
Current resume
Three professional references
Application materials should be sent to: SLRABoard@stlouisriveralliance.org with Executive Director Application in the subject heading.
Application review will begin on 11/16/26 and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The St. Louis River Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.
