Executive Director

The ideal candidate for the position of Executive Director at CREDA will have a proven track record of protecting and promoting the federal hydropower program, strong advocacy skills, and experience working with a board of directors.

CREDA employs one full-time employee and supplements this staff with consultants and support from its membership. CREDA works in close conjunction with the American Public Power Association, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the National Water Resources Association, and other organizations to protect the federal hydropower program for its intended purpose.

The Executive Director of CREDA provides leadership, advice, and assistance to the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, and various working committees concerning legislative developments, industry changes, strategic planning, business objectives, and policy needs that support CREDA’s mission now and in the future. The Executive Director is CREDA’s primary spokesperson and represents CREDA in meetings and events with WAPA and the US , and with federal legislators.

• have vision and a strategic orientation
• have ability to think analytically
• show respect and appreciation to others
• have strong interpersonal communication skills
• lead with integrity and courage
• have a commitment to CREDA
• understand member interests
• understand association financial management
• understand regional issues
• have ability to develop external relationships
• understand hydropower issues

• A Bachelor’s Degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is required.
• Education or experience in Communications, Public Administration, Business Administration, Political Science, Accounting, Finance, Law, Environmental Science, or Engineering is preferred.
• An advanced degree such as an MBA is preferred but not required.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership in public affairs, legislative advocacy, electric utility leadership, or environmental sciences is preferred.
• Experience at power marketing administrations, electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, public power or cooperative trade associations, or governmental agencies involved in hydroelectric power production is preferred.
• An understanding of the dynamics of the federal hydropower program is required.
• Knowledge of regional issues related to WAPA and the US  is preferred.
• The experience necessary to manage the financial and budgetary aspects of a non-profit association is required.