Description

Position Summary: The Executive Director leads CREF’s strategic vision, educational programs, research initiatives, and financial operations. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, this role balances executive leadership, relationship building, and hands-on management to grow the Foundation’s impact and advance our mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Execute board policies, maintain corporate registrations, and ensure 501(c)(3) compliance.
• Guide annual operational planning aligned with CREF’s strategic plan and CREF’s and USCC’s annual key projects lists.
• Organize monthly Board of Trustees meetings, report progress, and present annual organizational performance reviews.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for public relations, industry events, and negotiations.

Research, Education, & Program Management

• Oversee the national Compost Operations Training Course (COTC), other fee-based training initiatives, and research grant programs.
• Spearhead innovation and research initiatives addressing key environmental and industry issues.
• Direct public outreach, marketing campaigns (including annual International Compost Awareness Week campaign), website content, newsletters, and digital communications.
• Maintain strategic alliances with federal agencies, non-profits, and USCC, including managing the active MOU and monthly alignment meetings.

Revenue Generation & Fundraising

• Lead fund development through grant writing, fee-for-service education, and strategic sponsorship growth.
• Build cause-marketing partnerships and social initiatives to expand corporate and donor support.

Operations & Administration

• Create an annual workplan with a supportive budget.
• Manage organizational budgets, financial reporting (including 990 preparation), asset protection, and historical archiving.
• Facilitate monthly committee activities, work plans, and budget tracking.
• Hire, mentor, and evaluate three or more staff and three or more external contractors.

Requirements

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree (science or related degree preferred) and 4–6 years of leadership experience, preferably in a non-profit or trade association setting. Prefer applicable experience in organizational budgets, external relationship building, and working with a non-profit board.
• Industry Alignment: Deep interest or experience in composting, organics recycling, regenerative agriculture, or environmental science.
• Fundraising & Grants: Proven background in grant writing, fee-based program development, or non-profit revenue growth.
• Communication: Outstanding public speaking ability and persuasive written communication skills.
• Operations & Tech: Strong project management, team leadership, and proficiency in Google Suite and MS Office. Experiential knowledge of social impact campaigns is a plus.
• Travel: Ability to travel annually to the national USCC Conference and represent CREF.

To apply, email resume and cover letter to: jobs@compostfoundation.org by November 8, 2026.