Executive Director — Salish Sea Conservation Leader

Valtas; Bellingham (WA); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vacation

Sick leave

Holidays

401(k) match

Cell phone stipend

Job summary

Northwest Straits Foundation in Bellingham, WA, seeks an Executive Director to lead strategy, fundraising, and external engagement in a hybrid, full-time role. The ED will unify staff, advance marine conservation goals, and broaden donor partnerships across the Salish Sea.

The successful candidate will steer program development, supervise operations, and strengthen ties with tribes, agencies, and donors, while upholding the foundation’s mission and values.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a nonprofit organization, preferably in environmental or conservation fields.
• Proven ability to secure funding from diverse sources, including donors and grants.
• Strong track record engaging diverse stakeholders and partners across sectors.
• Strategic planning skills and ability to translate goals into annual plans.
• Excellent communication and public relations abilities as a visible representative.

Responsibilities

• Provide organizational strategy, fundraising, and board engagement oversight.
• Ensure operational excellence and healthy organizational culture.
• Lead day-to-day program management with a capable staff and partners.
• Build visibility, diversify funding, and deepen community partnerships.

Skills

Nonprofit leadership

Donor relations

Fundraising

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Public relations

Collaborative leadership

Grant writing

Job description

Northwest Straits Foundation in Bellingham, WA, seeks an Executive Director to lead strategy, fundraising, and external engagement in a hybrid, full-time role. The ED will unify staff, advance marine conservation goals, and broaden donor partnerships across the Salish Sea.

The successful candidate will steer program development, supervise operations, and strengthen ties with tribes, agencies, and donors, while upholding the foundation’s mission and values.