Executive Director

Description

As a trusted nonprofit, the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) delivers direct education and services for improved energy performance that also results in costs savings for families and businesses; healthier, safer, and more durable buildings; and local jobs and economic growth. With a focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and public engagement on clean energy topics, LEAP’s core activities include program design and implementation, program management and consulting, education and outreach, and industry stakeholder engagement.

Our work is focused on diagnosing, facilitating, and installing energy efficiency projects and driving up the rate of solar energy installations through group purchasing campaigns in participating communities, home energy assessments, utility-sponsored energy efficiency and conservation programs, project management, and seasonal Solarize campaigns. LEAP works directly with property owners as well as stakeholders in government, business, utilities, and other nonprofits to help create a clean energy future for the communities we serve.

Founded in 2010, the organization’s business model continues to evolve from primarily grant-based funding to a program revenue base with supplemental support from grants and donations. LEAP’s headquarters is in Charlottesville with a satellite office in Fairfax, VA. Please visit leap-va.org for more information.

Executive Director Position
LEAP seeks a mission-focused and strategic business leader for its next Executive Director (ED). A passion for the cause and demonstrated leadership skills are essential. Interested candidates should have proven experience in leading and growing an organization, administrative and programmatic oversight, business development, as well as revenue generation (grant writing and fundraising). The ED must be willing to wear many “hats” in moving the organization forward and to inspire and motivate staff and partners. The ED is expected to guide LEAP programs and deliver the results needed to realize LEAP’s recently adopted Strategic Plan, which addresses strengthening organizational capacity, enhancing and deepening programs locally, and a sustainable capitalization and revenue plan.

The ED must also possess excellent communications and leadership skills to leverage LEAP’s technically-skilled and committed staff. This will include balancing sensitivity to individual roles and responsibilities with bottom-line focused discipline. The ED must cultivate and maintain close and collegial working relationships with staff and the LEAP Governance Board, and should be able to work with diverse stakeholders in Virginia’s wider clean energy arena.

The ED supervises the following staff positions: Technical Director, Solar Program Manager, Building Analyst, Client Relations Coordinator, Communication and Outreach Manager.

Job Duties

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Implement LEAP’s strategic plan and establish the necessary processes to achieve it, working with the Governance Board and staff
• Ensure the organization’s financial health through financing planning and budgeting, development and execution of operations and marketing plans, and systems for project and grant reporting
• Effectively manage operations within the approved budget
• Support the Board in strategic planning, cultivation and training of new board members, and ensuring compliance with bylaws and policies
• Cultivate and write grant funding proposals and perform other development activities
• Represent LEAP through active involvement with stakeholder organizations, at conferences, in media interviews, and at community meetings and other events
• Cultivate the values of LEAP within the organization and set a healthy and positive tone
• Recruit, manage and coach LEAP staff to ensure individual excellence in the performance of their assigned responsibilities and collective excellence in contribution to success of the organization; integrate volunteers and interns in an effective manner
• Cultivate and maintain positive and collaborative relationships with key stakeholders and partners, including local governments, state agencies, utility companies, and other public, private and nonprofit entities

Skills Required

Work Experience
5-10 years progressive professional leadership experience, including senior management responsibilities in nonprofit or for-profit organizations. Experience with local/state/federal government programs, utility energy efficiency programs, residential construction, or real estate is helpful. Other areas of relevant experience could include: housing, finance, public health, collaborating with large employers.

Desired Skills and Qualities

• Leadership in driving results and growth from a strategic vision
• Managing a multifaceted organization
• Competence in financial planning, management, and budgeting
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Fundamental grasp of policy, design, and implementation issues regarding energy efficiency and renewable energy
• Experience with/willingness for development and fundraising
• Flexibility to work some evenings and weekends
• Drive, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit

Education
Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred. Credentials in clean energy a plus.

Additional Info

To Apply

• Qualified candidates should apply by sending a cover letter and resume to annie@leap-va.org.
• Compensation and benefits will be offered to the successful applicant commensurate with qualifications and experience
• Closing Date for applications is January 25, 2019
• LEAP is an Equal Opportunity Employer