The Executive Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight to advance the organization’s mission in alignment with Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Land Grant system. This role ensures the integration of vision, strategy, and community needs into impactful programs and sustainable organizational practices.
The Executive Director works in close partnership with the Board of Directors to support effective governance, policy development, and long-term strategic planning, while ensuring compliance with regulatory and system requirements.
As the organization’s primary public representative and relationship builder, the Executive Director cultivates and maintains strong partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders - including staff, volunteers, board members, Cornell University partners, donors, grantors, elected officials, community leaders, and the public—to enhance visibility, trust, and support for the organization’s work.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading strategic planning, change management, and organizational performance
- Overseeing program development, evaluation, and alignment with community needs
- Ensuring financial sustainability through budgeting, fundraising, grants, and county support
- Managing organizational operations, including facilities, risk, compliance, and information systems
- Directing human resources and volunteer engagement, fostering a welcoming and high-performing culture
- Serving as a brand ambassador, effectively communicating impact and maintaining a strong public image
The Executive Director also strengthens connections with Cornell faculty, Extension networks, and system partners to leverage resources, innovation, and collaborative opportunities. Overall, the role requires a balance of leadership, relationship management, financial stewardship, and operational excellence to sustain and grow organizational impact.
Apply By
All applications must be received on-line by 11:59 pm on November 24, 2026 . Position closing dates may change based on Association needs.
Required Qualifications
Master’s degree with a minimum of six (6) years of related professional experience, including four (4) years in a leadership role; PhD may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
Demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, sound judgment, change management, business acumen, problem-solving, and people management skills.
Experience within CCE, public (governmental), or nonprofit leadership.
Demonstrated knowledge of fund development, grants, and revenue enhancement.
Meet travel requirements of the position, including travel within the county, region, and state as needed; maintain an approved driver’s license that meets insurance eligibility standards.
Proven experience with risk management in a business environment.
Successful track record in building and maintaining partnerships with boards, government officials, community leaders, funders, and other stakeholders.
Technology Skills - Ability to learn and effectively use software including the internet, program related software, virtual meetings, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Work Environment – In addition to the Working Conditions; the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This position works in a typical office environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience within Cornell Cooperative Extension, public (governmental), or nonprofit leadership.
Knowledge or understanding of one or more Cornell Cooperative Extension key priority areas including: agriculture and food systems; community and economic vitality; environment & natural resources sustainable energy and climate change; nutrition, food safety and security and obesity prevention; 4-H youth development and strengthening families .
Position Responsibilities & Essential Functions
Program Responsibilities:
Program Assessment and Development – 0%
Program Delivery,…