Grow Native Massachusetts is a vibrant and growing nonprofit founded in 2010 that promotes the importance of native plants to landscapes across Massachusetts— on lands large and small; public and private; urban, suburban, and rural. Our educational and demonstration programs help citizens and landscape professionals to appreciate the importance of native plants to biodiversity, and they promote best practices for creating landscapes that are ecologically sound. We believe that shared stewardship and an understanding of local ecology is essential to our environment, and we depend upon a strong volunteer base and member engagement to run our programs.

This is a new position created as our founder transitions from seven years of primary operational responsibility. The Managing Director will develop and manage our growing programs, working closely with our President and the full Board of Directors. S/he will assume responsibility for day-to-day operations, take a principal role in meeting budget and fundraising targets, and coordinate the work of many others. This position requires an ability to wear many hats and to work independently.

Program Management Responsibilities:

• Assume leadership responsibility for the smooth running of all existing programs and events, including Evenings with Experts, the annual Native Plant Sale, Workshops, our Demonstration Garden, and others. This requires an ability to plan and organize, attention to logistical detail, and working effectively with many constituents— colleagues in the field, and especially our board members and many volunteers.
• Develop the volunteer and membership base that supports our programs. Build strong relationships with this constituency, and create a climate where member/volunteer contributions are cultivated and appreciated throughout the year.
• Work with the relevant Board committees on the design and execution of all programs, establishing program goals that are mission-oriented and achievable. Carefully develop and manage each program budget within the parameters of the annual organizational budget.
• Meet program and budget targets by promoting teamwork and a commitment to shared goals.
• Assist the Board in long-term strategic planning and new program development. Effectively implement new programs as they are established.

Staff Supervision:

• Supervise a very small staff (currently one person, our Program Coordinator) who provides support to all programs, manages our CRM database, produces our electronic communications, handles database integration for program registration and credit card processing, and performs many other duties.
• Hire contract staff as needed, especially IT consultants and others whose special expertise is required to ensure successful operations.

Operational Responsibilities:

• Assume responsibility for overall operational and administrative functions, working with appropriate Board members as needed. These include completing legal filings, insurance renewals, utility and other service contracts, lease negotiations, and all other basic functions related to running a nonprofit organization.
• Oversee the use of our CRM database as a critical tool for managing programs, communications, and constituent relations— working closely with our Program Coordinator.
• Work closely with the President and Board Finance Chair on the management of our $130,000 annual operating budget. Coordinate with our bookkeeper to carefully track all revenues and expenditures, and to ensure integrity in the handling of deposits and all financial matters.

Fundraising Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the Board Fundraising Committee and take a lead role in increasing the funds raised from individuals. Set and meet annual giving targets for a growing donor base. Help develop fundraising strategy, write appeal letters, and ensure that all donor acknowledgements are timely and appropriate.
• Build relationships with our members and donors that further connect them to our mission and programs, cultivating their engagement and ongoing support.
• Expand fundraising directed to landscape professionals and related businesses, building stronger connections with this community.
• Work with the Board on foundation fundraising. Write periodic grant proposals and reports.

Qualifications:

The small size of our organization necessitates a Managing Director who is extremely well organized, self-motivated, and able to work autonomously without constant supervision— while also taking direction from our President and actively engaged Board. The most essential skills include:

• strong team-building and relationship-building skills;
• proven ability to work effectively on multiple projects simultaneously;
• attention to detail in managing operations and programs;
• excellent written and oral communications skills;
• an ability to fundraise and commitment to meeting budget goals; and
• strong computer literacy, including proficiency with MS Word and Excel.

The successful candidate will have a real belief in our mission and understanding of the importance of native plants to ecosystems, but detailed expertise about plants or botany is not required. Substantial experience in the nonprofit sector is strongly preferred. Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in a relevant field is a plus.