Common Ground / New Haven Ecology Project, Executive Director

ORGANIZATION

Located in West Rock Ridge State Park in New Haven, CT, Common Ground’s mission is to invite people across ages and identities to connect to their urban environment, build community, grow into their full potential, and contribute to a just and sustainable world. We work toward this mission through active, authentic learning rooted in justice and our environment: a farm, in a forest, in a city. Three connected efforts are at the core of Common Ground’s work include a charter high school, urban farm, and an environmental center. 

To learn more about Common Ground, please visit www.commongroundct.org. 

OPPORTUNITY

Common Ground seeks a dynamic Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization in advancing its mission, vision, and strategic objectives. The ED will oversee all programs, people, and administrative operations across the high school, farm, and environmental center. As the primary representative, the ED will build meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders, including students, caregivers, alumni, community members, business leaders, governmental bodies, and educational organizations.

Key priorities for this role include developing a long-term strategic plan to ensure sustainability, expanding Common Ground’s reputation as a leader in regional environmental education, and nurturing the organization’s existing culture and values.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Visioning and Organizational Leadership

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors, students, families, staff, and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive long-term strategic plan that aligns with Common Ground’s vision and goals.
• Build on the organization’s cultural and programmatic strengths while outlining a sustainable path forward.
• Conduct a thorough needs assessment to identify opportunities for financial growth and program enhancement. Implement strategies to strengthen the fiscal health of the organization.
• Oversee the development of the annual budget and the Master Site Plan to ensure that facilities meet the needs of all three core programs.

Academic and Environmental Justice Leadership

• Champion an inclusive and welcoming environment where college preparation and urban farming are accessible to all community members. Promote respect for diverse perspectives, including race, gender, and sexual orientation.
• Provide strategic leadership to directors across the organization, fostering alignment with the organizational vision and mission.
• Oversee the success of Common Ground’s high school, urban farm, and environmental center, including academic programs, financial management, campus development, and advancement efforts.
• Collaborate closely with the School Director to strengthen student achievement, promote college readiness, and support environmental justice initiatives.
• Lead the hiring, evaluation, and development of senior leadership, including the School Director.

External Relations and Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the chief ambassador for Common Ground, in partnership with the Development and Communications teams. Build strong relationships with families, educational institutions, unions, corporate partners, and philanthropic organizations.
• Lead strategic marketing and communication efforts to enhance Common Ground’s brand recognition and public visibility.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and funders to drive successful fundraising efforts, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Requirements

• Leadership Experience: 10+ years in executive leadership within schools or nonprofit organizations, with a proven ability to lead diverse teams.
• Cultural Competence: A self-aware leader who understands the complex effects of race, class, income, gender, and other social factors and is prepared to lead conversations around these topics.
• Relationship Building: Adept at cultivating authentic partnerships with community organizations, policymakers, funders, and other key stakeholders. Communicates clearly and compellingly about Common Ground’s mission and priorities.
• Fundraising Expertise: Successful track record in leading fundraising efforts, including institutional advancement and partnership development.
• Education: A Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, Nonprofit Leadership, or a related field.
• Passion for Environmental Justice: Demonstrated commitment to advancing environmental education and justice.
• Facilities Development Experience: Familiarity with facilities/site planning and development, including collaboration with local governments.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary range of $150,000–$180,000, along with robust benefits, including medical, dental, and retirement plans. Further details can be provided upon request.

Common Ground is an equal opportunity employer and an organization that values diversity. Recruiting staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Candidates are evaluated solely on their qualifications to perform the work required.