Executive Director

The Northwest Straits Foundation (NWSF) is a regional marine conservation nonprofit that has spent over two decades restoring and protecting the Salish Sea through alliances with tribal nations, agencies, organizations, and donors to sustain one of the most ecologically vital and beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest. Through collaborative conservation, science-based restoration, derelict gear removal, and scholarships for emerging environmental advocates, the Foundation works every day to ensure these waters remain healthy for the communities, species, and future generations that depend on the Salish Sea. 

Executive Director Opportunity - this is a full-time, salaried, and hybrid role based in or near Bellingham, Washington USA 

This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-known and nationally recognized marine conservation organization. The incoming Executive Director will build visibility, grow and diversify funding, and deepen the community partnerships that sustain its mission and work, all while supporting the talented staff and partners who define us. This is a meaningful opportunity for a visionary, collaborative, grassroots leader who shares our vision and commitment for a vibrant and healthy Salish Sea.  The Executive Director will achieve success by building on an already high-functioning organization to expand the scope and scale of our programs.

 The ED holds responsibility for organizational strategy, fundraising, board engagement, operational excellence, and cultural health, serving as NWSF’s strategic voice, and external and internal champion. Day-to-day program management rests with a capable and trusted team.

The preferred candidate will bring a broad perspective, vision, and the ability to translate strategic goals into actionable plans. Building upon our legacy requires someone adept at fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, driving community engagement, and understanding the intricacies of nonprofit management, particularly within the marine conservation sector.

Leadership Abilities

To fulfill NWSF’s mission, we invite candidates to apply for the Executive Director position. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit leadership and management, particularly within environmental or marine conservation organizations.
• Skilled at cultivating donor relationships, securing funding, and managing organizational development initiatives.
• Proven ability to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders and build strong connections within the Salish Sea community.
• A strategic thinker who can envision and define long-term goals, translating them into effective annual plans.
• Excellent communication and public relations skills, with the capacity to be an authentic and engaging representative of NWSF.
• A collaborative leadership style that empowers staff, fosters teamwork, and encourages professional growth.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities in the marine conservation landscape of the Pacific Northwest.
• Strong understanding of public and private funding environments, including grant writing and stewardship of donor contributions.

 We look forward to welcoming a leader who embodies our values and is passionate about ensuring the ongoing success of our programs and initiatives. Together, we can continue our critical work protecting and restoring the Salish Sea for generations to come.