Executive Director

State Forests Trust of Oregon (SFTO) seeks an entrepreneurial and collaborative Executive Director to grow our organization. This is an exciting opportunity for a nonprofit leader who is passionate about the outdoors .

You would be responsible for all aspects of SFTO’s operations—with fundraising at the heart of the role. Your primary goal is to growing revenue through a portfolio of strategies. These may include major gifts, grants, grassroots campaigns, and innovative donor programs. You'll also guide strategy, manage budgets, and inspire people to visit and champion Oregon’s state forests. You’ll work closely with the Board of Trustees, REI Program staff and outdoor recreation groups that steward trails and facilities across Oregon's state forests.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to implement and update the organization’s strategic plan.
• Work closely with the REI Program to align priorities and implement projects as appropriate under our MOU with Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF).
• Guide SFTO toward greater financial independence.
• Support the Board in expanding and diversifying membership, providing timely updates and insight into operations, risk management, and opportunities.
• Represent SFTO publicly and advocate for its mission, values, and initiatives.

Board Relations and Governance

• Prepare for and attend all Board meetings, providing regular operational and financial updates.
• Assist in Board recruitment, onboarding, and education.
• Engage the Board in SFTO activities such as events, donor stewardship and other opportunities to further the organization’s strategy.
• Build and nurture relations and team building with and amongst Board members, ODF staff, donors and volunteer organizations.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget.
• Oversee monthly financial reporting and payments and work with the bookkeeper and CPA for state and federal filings.
• Manage cash flow, invested assets, and ensure appropriate insurance coverage.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with budget policies and fund restrictions.
• Give timely and accurate reports on financial conditions to the Board.

Fundraising and Development

• Lead SFTO’s fundraising activities which may include individual and major gifts, grant writing, and fundraising activities with the aim of increasing restricted and unrestricted revenue by 30%.
• Innovate and implement development activities to expand our base and increase giving levels through diverse initiatives such as the existing year-end appeal, capital projects, planned-giving, major gifts, commemorative gift program and other strategies.
• Engage the Board of Trustees to support development through various activities, such as serving as ambassadors for the organization and participating in donor appreciation activities.
• Oversee SFTO’s CRM and online giving platform.
• Collaborate with ODF/REI staff to identify potential funding for projects and grant applications.
• Cultivate strong relationships with individual donors, foundations, and partner organizations.

Programs and Partnerships

• Oversee implementation and evaluation of projects that support the REI Program.
• Collaborate with REI on project planning, promotion, and reporting.
• Ensure that SFTO-funded activities align with REI goals and are executed effectively and efficiently.

Community Engagement and Communications

• Serve as SFTO’s public spokesperson, representing at events and community meetings.
• Maintain relationships with volunteer and user groups, partners, and other stakeholder organizations.
• Manage the development of communication collateral including newsletters, website content, brochures, and social media.
• Coordinate and participate in activities that increase SFTO’s visibility and build support for its mission.
• In conjunction with ODF staff, present highlights of SFTO’s accomplishments on Oregon’s state forests to the Oregon Board of Forestry.

Administration and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all state and federal nonprofit requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and handle filings, registrations, and insurance renewals.
• Manage organizational infrastructure and assist with staff expansion and development as the organization grows.
• Oversee mail handling, office systems, and other administrative functions.