Executive Director

Organizational Background 

Based in Grand Junction, Colorado, Colorado Canyons Association (CCA) fosters community stewardship, education, and awareness of our National Conservation Lands with a focus on Dominguez-Escalante, Gunnison Gorge and McInnis Canyons National Conservation Areas in Western Colorado.

Job Responsibilities 

Responsibilities include oversight of all operations, development, programs, administration and strategic vision. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the ideal candidate will be a well-rounded, independent, seasoned leader with a strong ability to work across a broad spectrum of political interests. 

• Establish a 2027–2030 strategic plan to align long-term priorities with operational goals. 

• Lead and coordinate all aspects of major gifts fundraising, including prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. 

• Conduct donor and grant research to develop comprehensive profiles and engagement strategies for major donors. 

• Develop and implement strategies to grow corporate partnerships and sponsorships. 

• Oversee monthly fundraising and financial reports to ensure progress toward annual revenue and budget goals. 

• Mitigate liabilities through development and implementation of appropriate policies and procedures. 

• Manage donor recognition and stewardship strategies to strengthen long-term engagement. 

• Serve as the primary staff liaison to the Board on philanthropic strategies and performance. 

• Oversee all external communication materials including website, newsletters, and social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook. 

• Serve as the face of the organization and actively participate in both internal and external events to develop strategic partnerships and increase community awareness of CCA’s programs. 

• Build and lead an effective team dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission through successful program implementation, community engagement, and fundraising targets. 

Desired Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree and 6+ years of senior management experience, preferably in the nonprofit sector. 

• A fundraising leader with senior level development program experience. 

• Strong strategic vision and planning background with a long history of working with a Board of Directors. 

• Commitment to personal and staff professional development. 

• A passion for the National Conservation Lands and the three National Conservation Areas located in Western Colorado. 

• Politically nuanced with an ability to work with donors and elected officials from all political affiliations, and a strong background in advocacy and/or experience managing conservation or public lands campaigns. 

• An entrepreneurial can-do spirit with the ability to inspire others. 

• Firm grasp of land conservation and stewardship strategies. 

• Excellent organizational, presentation and verbal and written communication skills. 

• Persistent, yet patient, individual who has vision, the passion for the land and community, a love of the non-profit organization and a great sense of humor.

To apply: Send a cover letter, resume and three references to sara@canyonsassociation.org. Please, no phone calls. This position will remain open until 12 PM on March 9, 2026, or until a candidate is selected.