Executive Director

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 non‑profit operations and is deeply committed to clean water, community partnerships, and effective 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

• 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

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

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

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

• Supervise staff and contractors with clear expectations and regular feedback
• Foster an inclusive, supportive, and psychologically safe workplace

Delegate effectively while maintaining appropriate oversight

• 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

• 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

Experience working with Ameri Corps programs or members

• Salary: $70,000 annually (paid bi‑weekly), with potential Board review after one year
• Benefits include wellness stipend, paid health leave, phone stipend, and paid time off

Benefits provided in accordance with the Blue Elements Employee Handbook and Colorado employment regulations