Job Description

Executive Director

The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of AASHE and reports to the Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for overall management and leadership consistent with AASHE's mission and goals. The Director promotes the advancement of sustainability in higher education through delivery of programs and resources, as well as public outreach and partnerships. Additionally, the Director is responsible for all aspects of fundraising and development for the annual operating budget. There are four main areas of responsibility: program development & delivery, membership development, fundraising & finances, and administration and staff oversight. The Executive Director shall perform or ensure that the following tasks are accomplished on behalf of the organization:

Program Development & Delivery

  • Provide leadership in developing programs and project ideas with the Board of Directors and staff, and implement programs and plans authorized by the board.
  • Oversee the planning and organization of the biennial North American conference.
  • Design and oversee delivery of workshops, webinars, and other AASHE-sponsored professional development opportunities.
  • Continue to build on and enhance AASHE's online resources.
  • Ensure that sustainability is a central focus of all program development and delivery.
  • Publicize AASHE activities, programs, events, and goals.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of relevant developments and trends in campus sustainability and take advantage of opportunities for mission-related projects and partnerships.

Membership Development

  • Establish and maintain sound working relationships with member institutions and partner organizations.
    • Provide consulting to members and respond promptly to all queries.
    • Offer campus visits, program evaluations, talks, and meeting facilitation if time permits.
  • Recruit new campus, business, and NGO members, and develop AASHE's membership base and mailing lists.
  • Work to ensure member satisfaction and encourage membership renewals.
  • Promote partnerships and collaborations among AASHE members.
  • Involve business and NGO partners in programs and governance.
  • Communicate regularly with AASHE members and potential members through AASHE Bulletin (weekly) and Update (bimonthly).
  • Supervise and enhance AASHE's website, oversee electronic and print communications and promotional literature, and increase AASHE's internet presence.

Fundraising & Finances

  • Raise funds from corporations, foundations, and individuals through sponsorships, grants, and donations.
  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors in strategic fundraising activities including business and individual solicitation, major grants, and program sponsorship.
  • Act as the principal organizational development officer, responsible for research and grant writing.
  • Develop and submit grant proposals and prepare periodic reports to grantors.
  • Raise money from AASHE events and sales of educational products (books, DVD's, etc.).
  • Work closely with the Board of Directors in setting priorities, developing an annual work plan and budget, and implementing actions; also participate in longer-term strategic planning.
  • Prepare and manage the annual budget and ensure that AASHE operates within budget guidelines and that adequate funds are available to permit AASHE to carry out its work.
  • Develop and maintain sound financial practices.
  • Ensure that fiscal operations are conducted in a professional and timely manner including maintenance of all important records for taxes, incorporation documents, minutes, budgets, payroll, insurance and correspondence.
  • See that the board is kept fully informed of the financial condition of AASHE and important factors influencing it.

Administration and Staff Oversight

  • Lead AASHE toward its mission of advancing campus sustainability.
  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the office and establish efficient, effective, ethical and sustainable office procedures.
  • Communicate regularly with the Board of Directors and Executive Committee as well as advisory councils, and report on AASHE accomplishments.
  • Represent the programs and goals of AASHE to the media, other organizations, and the general public.
  • Conduct official correspondence of the organization and execute legal documents (jointly with designated officers as required).
  • Assure that AASHE has a current and active strategic plan with implementation goals toward which it makes consistent and timely progress.
  • Promote active participation by volunteers including council, committee, and board members.
  • Create and maintain official records and documents and ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations.
  • Hire and supervise (with input from Board and staff) employees and volunteers.
  • Supervisory responsibilities include making hiring and termination recommendations, approval of time off, and performance appraisals.
  • See that job descriptions are updated and that socially just and responsible labor practices are in place.
  • Work with staff to promote cooperation, clear communications, common purpose and teamwork.
  • Ensure that an effective management team is in place, with appropriate provision for succession.
  • Promote staff development and education.