Executive Director
The Executive Director serves as the organization's Chief Executive Officer and chief development officer, providing visionary leadership to advance the mission, financial sustainability, and long-term success of the Kenai Watershed Forum.
Working closely with the Directors of Finance & Operations, Science & Research, and Education & Community Engagement, the Executive Director provides strategic leadership while fostering a collaborative organizational culture that empowers staff to successfully implement KWF's programs and initiatives.
The Executive Director focuses on organizational leadership, fundraising, partnership development, board governance, strategic planning, and external relations. Day-to-day administrative and operational functions are managed by the Director of Finance & Operations in collaboration with the Executive Director and leadership team.
Primary Responsibilities
• Provide strategic leadership that advances KWF's mission, vision, and long-term sustainability.
• Serve as the organization's principal fundraiser and lead efforts to diversify revenue through grants, philanthropic giving, corporate partnerships, endowments, and unrestricted funding.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with Tribal organizations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and philanthropic organizations throughout Alaska and beyond.
• Support and advise the Board of Directors in governance, strategic planning, policy development, and organizational priorities.
• Serve as KWF's primary spokesperson and represent the organization with professionalism, integrity, and credibility throughout Alaska and nationally.
• Foster an organizational culture grounded in collaboration, innovation, accountability, scientific excellence, and community service.
• Work collaboratively with the leadership team to ensure organizational goals are achieved while supporting staff success.
Minimum of five years of progressively responsible executive leadership experience in a nonprofit organization, governmental agency, foundation, conservation organization, or comparable mission-driven organization
Demonstrated success securing philanthropic support through major gifts, private foundations, corporate giving, government grants, or other diversified funding sources
Proven ability to build strategic partnerships and work effectively with governing boards.
Exceptional written, verbal, and public communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree or other advanced degree in natural resources, nonprofit management, public administration, business, environmental science, or a related field.
·Knowledge of watershed management, fisheries, natural resource conservation, restoration ecology, or related disciplines.
Experience working collaboratively with Tribal governments, Alaska communities, and diverse stakeholder groups.
The Executive Director position is an exempt position with a salary range of $80,000 to $125,000, depending upon qualifications and experience.
Benefits include:
• Health insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid annual leave
• Paid sick leave
• Flexible work schedule with opportunities for limited remote work
• Office located in Soldotna overlooking the scenic Kenai River
Application Process
Initial review of applications will begin August 6, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
Additional information regarding the Kenai Watershed Forum and a complete position description may be found at: www.kenaiwatershed.org
Questions regarding the position may be directed to: [email protected]
Residency
The successful candidate will either be a resident of the Central Kenai Peninsula or establish residency within six weeks of employment.