Executive Director | Nature's Classroom

Executive Director Position

Vision

We envision a future where all students have access to the transformative power of outdoor education. Do you have the experience and passion to strengthen this commitment?

Stewardship

We are always looking for the best practices and best ways to educate and promote sustainable practices. Our focus on solution-oriented thinking continues to guide our development.

Fun

We believe that learning is at its best when it's fun. We offer a variety of educational and entertaining activities to help students and staff of all ages appreciate nature and the environment.

Industry Leader in Experiential Education: Lead an established and well-respected outdoor education and conference center serving diverse communities while championing environmental awareness, academic excellence, and emotional learning.
Strategic Growth Opportunity: oversee a 600+ acre site, direct the activities of a $2.5 million operation and guide a dedicated team of 35 staff.
Supportive Environment: Collaborate closely with a committed Board of Trustees and a dedicated team to leverage resources to foster professional growth and organizational sustainability.

Top 3 Qualities

Visionary: Proven experience in nonprofit executive leadership, capable of setting strategic goals and advancing organizational impact.
Strong Steward: Skilled in management, fundraising, governance, and resource allocation.
Inclusive Team Builder: Committed to fostering a positive culture that encourages innovation, thoughtful risk, accountability, and team spirit

3 REASONS TO LEAD NATURE'S CLASSROOM

Nature’s Classroom’s impact

Nature’s Classroom, Inc. has been a leader in outdoor education for over 50 years, inspiring over one million students and teachers to learn beyond the classroom walls. Operating a unique facility in Charlton, Massachusetts, we provide tailored, immersive programs that empower participants to connect with nature and education through multi-day experiences. Nature’s Classroom is poised for expansion and is looking for an Executive leader with vision, passion, and the ability to galvanize a team of equally talented professionals on this exciting journey.

Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Strategy

Provide visionary direction aligned with the mission and vision of Nature’s Classroom.
Collaborate with the Board of Trustees to set measurable growth and program excellence goals. Cultivate an innovative, inclusive environment that inspires staff and stakeholders.

2. Operations Management

Oversee the operation of the 600-acre campus with 16 buildings, ensuring top-tier environmental programs aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.
Supervise, mentor and evaluate staff, fostering professional growth and team cohesion.
Maintain strong ethical hiring practices and support staff diversity.

3. Financial and Fundraising Oversight

Manage the $2.5 million annual budget, ensuring transparency and fiscal accountability.
Spearhead fundraising, including major gifts, annual & capital campaigns, donor stewardship, and grant opportunities.

4. Community and Advocacy

Act as the primary spokesperson for Nature’s Classroom, enhancing its visibility.
Build strategic partnerships with community organizations and government agencies.
Promote social-emotional learning, environmental awareness, and community engagement.

5. Facilities and Maintenance

Lead the maintenance department to uphold site standards and oversee improvement projects.
Maintain and strengthen the relationship with the site ownership (Santos Irrevocable Trust).

6. Board Engagement

Report to and collaborate with the Board of Trustees on strategy, compliance, and organizational growth.
Attend and organize quarterly Board meetings and participate in recruitment efforts.

Qualifications

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred.
7+ years of leadership experience in nonprofit or related organizations.
Expertise in public and private education systems, fundraising, and strategic planning.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and advocacy skills.
Demonstrated commitment to sustainability, diversity, and community-centric practices.
Sense of humor and willingness to get one’s hands dirty!

Compensation and Benefits

Nature’s Classroom offers a compensation package with a competitive salary range commensurate with experience. Salary range is$105,000-$120,00 plus a housing option and car allowance.

Other benefits include:

Pet-friendly – bring your pet to work.
Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and personal days.
Average 13-19 paid holidays per year.
Medical, vision, and dental insurance
This is in addition to being able to work with a passionate team that loves the impact they are having on the world.

Nature's Classroom is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting equity and inclusion in all operations.

Questions or ready to submit your resume - please email Dan Weir along with your LinkedIn or resume to dan@immersive1st.com