Executive Director - Rocket City HR

Singing River Trail

Executive Director

Singing River Trail is seeking an experienced non-profit leader with a passion for strengthening community relations and advancing educational, wellness, and tourism opportunities for its people.

About the Singing River Trail

The Singing River Trail is a visionary project that aims to connect communities across North Alabama through a multi-use trail system. This 220-mile trail network will foster economic growth, enhance recreational opportunities, and promote a healthy lifestyle while celebrating the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of the Singing River Trail will be responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the organization. This role requires a dynamic and experienced nonprofit leader who can advance the mission, build strong relationships with stakeholders, drive fundraising efforts, and engage the community in supporting the trail system. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, local and state officials, and community partners to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the Singing River Trail.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a strategic plan to guide the organization's growth and development in alignment with its mission and goals.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, including staff management, program development, financial management, and administrative functions.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Singing River Trail, promoting its vision and mission to the public, media, and stakeholders.
• Work with the Board of Directors to ensure strong governance and effective decision-making.
• Foster a positive organizational culture that supports teamwork, innovation, and excellence.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the organization's budget, ensuring financial stability and sustainability.
• Monitor financial performance, providing regular reports to the Board of Directors and funders.
• Implement financial controls and procedures to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Oversee the management of grants, contracts, and agreements, ensuring compliance with requirements.

Project Management

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Lead the strategic development and execution of projects aligned with the vision and mission of the Singing River Trail, ensuring each initiative is completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Multi-Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with city, county, state officials, and private partners to advance SRT projects, including land acquisition, trail construction, and public amenities.
• Timeline & Budget Oversight: Develop and manage detailed project plans, including timelines, milestones, and budgets. Track progress and implement adjustments to keep initiatives on schedule and within financial constraints.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify potential risks to projects and proactively develop solutions, ensuring minimal disruptions and challenges to project progress.
• Performance Metrics: Establish measurable objectives for each project and regularly evaluate project outcomes, making data-driven decisions to enhance future efforts.

Organizational Management

• Leadership & Team Building: Oversee and manage the SRT team, ensuring that staff members, contractors, and volunteers are aligned with organizational goals and project requirements. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Partnership Development: Cultivate relationships with government agencies, community groups, and funding partners to secure support and resources for trail projects and long-term sustainability.
• Operational Oversight: Direct the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficient processes, clear communication channels, and effective decision-making structures across all departments.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee budgeting, financial management, and fundraising efforts to ensure the fiscal health of the Singing River Trail, ensuring adequate resources for both short-term projects and long-term operational needs.
• Governance & Reporting: Serve as the primary liaison with the board of directors, providing updates on organizational progress, financial status, and project developments. Ensure that the organization's governance is aligned with best practices and complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Fundraising and Resource Development

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure financial support from diverse sources, including individual donors, foundations, corporations, and government grants.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with current and potential donors, sponsors, and partners to secure funding for trail development and maintenance.
• Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events and campaigns, ensuring their success and alignment with the organization's goals.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities, preparing grant proposals and reports as required.
• Manage and track fundraising goals and progress, providing regular updates to the Board of Directors.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and state elected officials, government agencies, and community leaders to garner support for the Singing River Trail.
• Advocate for policies and initiatives that support the development and sustainability of the trail system at the local, state, and national levels.
• Collaborate with community organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders to create partnerships that enhance the trail's impact and reach.
• Engage the community in trail-related activities and events, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the Singing River Trail.

Volunteer Engagement and Support

• Develop and implement a volunteer program to support the trail's maintenance, programming, and events.
• Recruit, train, and retain volunteers, ensuring they are effectively utilized and appreciated for their contributions.
• Provide leadership and support to volunteer committees, encouraging active participation and collaboration.
• Recognize and celebrate the contributions of volunteers, creating a positive and rewarding experience.

Marketing and Public Relations

• Develop and execute a marketing and communications strategy to increase awareness of the Singing River Trail and its benefits.
• Oversee the creation of promotional materials, social media content, newsletters, and other communications.
• Represent the organization at public events, meetings, and media engagements, serving as the face of the Singing River Trail.
• Build a strong brand identity and ensure consistent messaging across all platforms and materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in nonprofit management, public administration, business administration, or a related field preferred.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a leadership role, within a nonprofit organization preferred, with a proven track record in fundraising, community engagement, and strategic planning.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and growing an organization, including staff management, budgeting, and program development.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit governance, financial management, and fundraising principles.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, partners, elected officials, and community leaders.
• Passion for outdoor recreation, community development, and environmental conservation.
• Knowledge of North Alabama's communities, culture, and landscape is highly desirable.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and Vision: Ability to lead with a strategic vision, inspire others, and drive organizational success.
• Fundraising Expertise: Proven ability to develop and implement successful fundraising strategies and cultivate donor relationships.
• Community Engagement: Strong skills in building partnerships and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals.
• Volunteer Management: Experience in recruiting, training, and motivating volunteers, creating a positive and effective volunteer program.
• Advocacy and Public Policy: Understanding of the legislative process and experience in engaging with elected officials and policymakers.
• Financial Acumen: Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Communication and Marketing: Effective communication and marketing skills to promote the organization's mission and activities.

The Singing River Trail is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.