Executive Director

Position Summary

Blue Elements seeks a collaborative, mission-driven Executive Director to lead organizational strategy, operations, and partnerships. This hands-on leadership role oversees finances, fundraising, compliance, staff and board relations, programs, and external communications. The ideal candidate is comfortable balancing strategic leadership with day-to-day nonprofit operations and is deeply committed to clean water, community partnerships, and effective governance.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Governance

• Lead implementation of the mission, vision, and Board-approved strategic plan
• Identify risks, opportunities, and operational needs; communicate clearly with the Board
• Serve as primary liaison to the Board of Directors
• Support Board meetings, committees, and member recruitment and onboarding

Financial Management & Compliance

• Manage organizational budget, accounting, payroll, and financial systems
• Maintain financial policies and internal controls
• File all required state and federal reports and maintain nonprofit compliance
• Oversee insurance, risk management, and safety procedures
• Collaborate with the Board Treasurer and/or Finance Committee

Fundraising & Donor Relations

• Research and secure grant funding for programs and operations
• Manage grant reporting and compliance
• Cultivate relationships with donors, funders, and philanthropic partners

Programs & Partnerships

• Ensure programs align with strategic goals and mission
• Collaborate with nonprofits, municipalities, researchers, and government partners
• Monitor program outcomes and support evaluation and improvement

Communications & Public Presence

• Oversee newsletters, website, and public-facing materials
• Represent Blue Elements with partners, funders, and the community

Staff Leadership & Culture

• Supervise staff and contractors with clear expectations and regular feedback
• Foster an inclusive, supportive, and psychologically safe workplace
• Delegate effectively while maintaining appropriate oversight

Qualifications

Required

• 3–5 years of senior nonprofit leadership experience
• Demonstrated nonprofit financial management and budgeting experience
• Strong understanding of nonprofit governance and compliance
• Experience working closely with a Board of Directors
• Proven success in fundraising, grant writing, and grant management

Strongly Desired

• Familiarity with water issues on Colorado’s Western Slope or Upper Arkansas River Valley
• Experience building partnerships with local nonprofits, municipalities, and funders

Experience leading organizations through transition or change

Benefits include wellness stipend, paid health leave, phone stipend, and paid time off