Executive Director
National Speleological Society
Huntsville, Alabama (hybrid)
The Moran Company is pleased to partner with the National Speleological Society to recruit the organization’s Executive Director.
The National Speleological Society (NSS), the nation’s leading membership organization dedicated to caves and caving, seeks an accomplished and collaborative Executive Director to lead the Society’s operations and help guide its next phase of organizational development.
Background
Founded in 1941, the National Speleological Society (NSS) is the largest membership organization dedicated to caves and caving. With over 8,000 members and over 250 local chapters, known as grottos, the NSS connects cavers so they can explore, study, and conserve caves worldwide.
The NSS has an annual operating budget of approximately $1 million and a strong financial foundation. The Society hosts an annual weeklong convention that brings together cavers from around the world, as well as numerous regional events. The NSS owns 19 cave preserves and manages four preserves owned by others. The NSS is strongly committed to conserving underground environments, advancing cave and karst science, promoting responsible cave exploration, and fostering fellowship among those interested in caves. For more information, visit the NSS website at caves.org.
Position Summary
The NSS is a largely volunteer-run organization, with its programs, activities, and leadership supported by a dedicated network of volunteer leaders and members. Reporting to the Board of Governors, the Executive Director is responsible for the Society’s day-to-day operations and for implementing the strategic direction and policies established by the Board. Working collaboratively with staff, Division Heads, and other volunteer leaders, the Executive Director provides organizational leadership, coordination, and support to ensure that NSS programs and operations advance the Society’s mission and strategic priorities. The Executive Director oversees the organization’s operations and manages and supports the Division Heads responsible for Communications, Education and Training, Conservation and Science, Facilities, Membership, Operations, and Accounting and Finance, while working closely with the many volunteers whose expertise, service, and leadership are essential to the Society’s success.
Qualifications Minimum of ten years of relevant nonprofit management experience. Additional financial and risk management expertise is preferred.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience; advanced degree preferred.
Familiarity with cave and karst science, conservation, land management, or related environmental fields is desirable.
Experience with land trusts, conservation organizations, or stewardship of protected lands is desirable.
Outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills, with demonstrated ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, members, and organizational leaders.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with a wide range of constituencies, including Board members, staff, volunteers, members, donors, and external partners.
Demonstrated ability to represent an organization effectively and to build and maintain productive relationships with donors, partners, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other external stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to anticipate and address strategic needs and risks.
Proficiency with contemporary workplace technology, including Google Workspace, Slack, and Microsoft 365.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment in determining organizational needs, delegate effectively, and adapt as priorities change. Must be highly organized and communicate clearly and consistently with staff, Division Heads, and the Board.
Leadership Priorities
The Executive Director will work with staff, volunteer leadership,…