Executive Director
To direct day-to-day operations of an urban forestry advocacy program
Strong people skills, flexibility and the ability to focus on a goal
are the hallmarks of the executive director who oversees the day-to-day
operations of a nonprofit organization and carries out the objectives
of a board of directors while holding firmly to the organization's
mission statement.
Self-starters passionately devoted to their cause, executive directors
rely on a wide range of skills and experience in their work.
Networking, fundraising and written and verbal communication skills are
essential to success in this often demanding position.
Although working in the nonprofit segment of the community, executive
directors need all the skills required of any small business owner or
manager including an understanding of sales and marketing.
A knowledge of trees is helpful but not essential as many directors
learn more about urban forestry as they gain experience in their
careers. The ability to motivate, organize and lead both staff and
volunteers is a critical responsibility of the executive director.
"The work I do requires a clarity of purpose in order to focus on
essential activities," said Ray Tretheway, executive director of the
Sacramento Tree Foundation in California. It also demands "the know-how
to inspire people to become involved in creating healthy communities
and healthy urban forests."
Dana Adams, executive director of the Tree Foundation of Kern, in
Bakersfield, California said ultimately, the job is about "helping
communities beautify their neighborhoods and achieve a balance with
nature in an urban setting."
"I know I make a difference in how our communities look every single day," Adams said.
"I see myself as the ultimate traffic cop, marshaling resources to
maximize the number of trees we can donate to communities." Executive
directors thrive on diverse work responsibilities that include
meetings, grant writing, administration and educational outreach. "No
two days are the same," said Adams who says the job provides constant
gratification. "If you love trees and the environment, get your foot in
the door, learn more and just do it."
Flexibility, creativity and a sense of humor help Martha Ozonoff in her role as executive
director of a small nonprofit urban forestry organization in Davis,
California. Ozonoff said her position covers "everything from project
management to answering the phone."
"Working for a nonprofit organization is very rewarding," Ozonoff said. "You won't get rich, but you'll have fun."
Requires: 4 Year college degree
Salary: Salaries range from $30,000 to start. Larger foundations can pay $60,000 or more for experience.
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