Executive Director

Friends of Hocking Hills State Park (FHHSP) seeks a mission-driven, entrepreneurial Executive Director to serve as the organization’s first professional leader. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a growing nonprofit that supports one of Ohio’s most visited and cherished state parks and operates the nationally recognized John Glenn Astronomy Park.

Friends of Hocking Hills State Park is transitioning from a volunteer-led organization to a staff‑led, professionally managed nonprofit guided by a clear 2026–2028 Strategic Plan. The Board of Directors has intentionally redefined its role to focus on governance, philanthropy, and strategic partnerships, creating space for the Executive Director to lead membership operations, fundraising execution, and organizational growth.

The Executive Director is the chief executive of FHHSP and is responsible for translating strategy into action. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will build organizational systems, lead revenue growth, cultivate donors and partners, and develop a lean, high‑performing staff and volunteer structure. This role is ideal for a builder who is energized by creating structure, momentum, and long‑term sustainability.

• Execute the 2026–2028 Strategic Plan and recommend adjustments as conditions evolve.
• Establish operating rhythms, performance metrics, and management systems.
• Recommend staffing, consultant, and infrastructure investments to the Board.
• Serve as the organization’s primary external leader and spokesperson.
• Lead and grow diversified revenue streams including individual giving, memberships, events, grants, and sponsor ships.
• Design and lead a Board‑engaged fundraising model appropriate for a growing organization.
• Cultivate and solicit major donors and philanthropic partners.
• Prepare the organization for future capital and special campaigns.

• Partner closely with the Board Chair and officers to advance governance effectiveness.
• Support the Board–Executive Director Partnership Charter and maintain clear boundaries between governance and management.
• Provide timely, accurate information to support informed Board decision‑making.
• Support Board development, orientation, and engagement.

• Provide strategic oversight of the John Glenn Astronomy Park and other programs.
• Supervise program staff and contractors while avoiding direct program delivery.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Park leaders, public partners, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure programs align with mission, financial sustainability, and visitor impact.

• Establish strong working relationships with the Board, Park leadership, and key donors.
• Implement foundational systems for membership, fundraising, financial management, and reporting.
• Increase operating revenue and donor engagement.
• Support the transition to a staff‑led operating model.
• Position the organization for future capital and programmatic growth.

• Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, or a closely related field.
• Track record of revenue growth through individual giving, events, or institutional support.
• Experience working effectively with a volunteer Board of Directors.
• Comfort operating in a lean, growth‑oriented environment.
• Strong communication, relationship‑building, and organizational skills.
• Passion for conservation, education, or mission‑aligned public service.

The Executive Director will receive a competitive base salary complemented by a health insurance stipend, four weeks paid vacation and holidays, and meaningful performance‑based incentives tied to revenue growth. The Board views compensation as an investment in leadership and is committed to rewarding success.