Executive Director

Position Summary

WYRA is seeking a full-time Executive Director to lead the organization in advancing its mission, strengthening operational and financial health, supporting staff and volunteers, and building strong relationships within the community and rowing network. The Executive Director serves as the chief administrator responsible for operations, fundraising, partnerships, and strategic direction in partnership with the Board of Directors. This full-time position includes on-water coaching responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Board & Organizational Leadership

• Execute Board directives and implement approved policies
• Prepare agendas and reports for Board and committee meetings
• Provide regular operational, financial, and program updates
• Support Board recruitment, onboarding, and engagement
• Participate in strategic planning and governance discussions

Staff & Volunteer Management

• Supervise all WYRA employees and volunteers
• Ensure adequate staffing for safe and successful programming
• Oversee hiring, evaluations, compliance, and policies

Financial Management

• Lead all fiscal operations and ensure integrity and compliance
• Develop the annual budget for Board approval
• Oversee accounting, audits, payroll, and vendor agreements
• Support long-term financial sustainability

Community Engagement & Public Relations

• Expand WYRA’s visibility and partnerships
• Recruit and retain athletes across all programs
• Oversee social media and communications
• Represent WYRA locally and nationally, including on the Riverfront BID Board

Boathouse & Rowing Operations

• Oversee facility safety, maintenance, and vendor contracts
• Approve operational purchases within budget
• Coordinate travel and logistics for away regattas
• Support execution of the Head of the Christina regatta
• Collaborate with parents to support athlete experience

Fundraising & Development

• Lead revenue growth through grants, events, sponsorships, and appeals
• Oversee donor communications and alumni engagement
• Maintain accurate fundraising documentation

Coaching Opportunities [preferred; not required]

• Facilitate daily training sessions by leading on-water practices and overseeing land-based workouts for the men’s, women’s, or novice programs
• Provide technical coaching and safety oversight during rowing sessions and ergometer/strength training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred
• Demonstrated leadership in a professional, educational or organizational setting; non-profit management experience preferred
• Experience in coaching, teaching, or youth management; previous rowing coaching experience is preferred
• Experience in fundraising and financial oversight
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively with a Board
• Must be able to multi-task and to meet deadlines
• Must possess sound judgment and problem-solving skills
• Must possess exceptional organizational skills
• Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and climb a ladder
• Holds a valid driver’s license
• Rowing or coaching experience strongly preferred