Great Lakes Article:

Great Lakes United has begun a search for an Executive Director to serve as the leader of the organization’s operations and programs. This position is the chief salaried employee of the corporation and has the authority and responsibilities as outlined below. This position reports to the Board of Directors under the direct supervision of the President.

Position Requirements

Great Lakes United consists of a coalition of community-based and regional organizations and individuals from Canada, the First Nations and Tribes, and the United States whose mission is to work together to maintain and develop a healthy ecosysystem in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin. The Executive Director of this organization is charged with leading the coalition efforts of promoting and coordinating citizen action, building strong grassroots leadership, carrying out environmental education programs and developing and advocating for effective policy initiatives.

Administration:
· Overall management of the organization
· Implementation of the strategic plan
· Supervision of staff at the Buffalo, New York, Montreal, Quebec and Hamilton, Ontario offices
· Review and analysis of monthly financial statements
· Provide support to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee
· Represent Great Lakes United on other boards

Fundraising:
· Oversee the implementation of the development plan including, but not limited to, cultivating major donor relationships and working in partnership with the board and staff in an effort to diversify funding sources.
· Develop and oversee writing and implementation of new and present core grants for general funding
· Develop, administer, monitor, and participate in major fundraising events.
· Take responsibility for and assist with the promotion of increased organizational and individual membership
· Participate actively and assist staff with grant development and maintain productive long term relationships with funders

Great Lakes Policy:
· Speak on behalf of Great Lakes United and intervene on Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin policies/agreements and developments to all levels of governments
· Attend meetings, generate and collaborate on letters and media concerning Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin wide issues
· Participate in major forums and events
· Speak and/or develop written materials on Great Lakes issues for various interest groups who want a basin wide perspective

Coalition Building and Management:
· Assist with the promotion of increased organizational and individual members’ active participation in Great Lakes United and Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River issues and actions
· Connect Great Lakes United’s mission with the public, non-governmental organizations, and all levels of government

Required Qualifications

· Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences/Studies or in a related field
· Previous experience as an Executive Director of a not-for-profit organization
· Excellent management and supervisory skills
· Experience in all aspects of fundraising
· Grant proposal development
· Excellent financial management skills
· Ability to effectively establish priorities and meet deadlines
· Experience in coordinating and working with and building coalitions
· Strong public speaking skills
· Previous experience working with and supporting a Board of Directors and maintaining a close relationship with the Executive Committee
· Strong attention to detail and follow-up skills desired
· Ability to speak and write in French a plus
· Willingness to travel extensively throughout the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin a must

How To Apply For This Position

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter with salary requirement, resume and references no later than January 31, 2004 to the attention of Bonnie Danni at Great Lakes United, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, Cassety Hall, Buffalo, New York 14222 or via e-mail to bonnie@glu.org. Microsoft Word documents are appreciated if submitted electronically.

Great Lakes United is an Equal Opportunity Employer

For more information about Great Lakes United, please visit our website, www.glu.org.