Chief Executive Officer
: Job Details :

Chief Executive OfficerThe Opportunity

The Board of the Audubon Nature Institute is seeking a highly qualified, inspirational, and dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to succeed their long-tenured CEO who is retiring after 52 years of service.

Over the past 140 years, what is now known as Audubon Nature Institute has grown from a single enclosure of birds to a 501(c)3 non-profit, world-class family of facilities, events, experiences, sustainability initiatives, and conservation programs united by the purpose to celebrate, protect, and connect guests to the wonders of nature.

The Position

The CEO is responsible for a highly capable staff of approximately 525 employees with a 2024 Operating Budget of approximately $48,000,000 and a 2024-2028 Capital Budget of $84,000,000.

While it is important for the CEO to oversee the operations and management of the key assets, drive the long-term vision of the organization, raise funds, and build and sustain a thriving high-performance culture, this position requires a uniquely qualified leader. The winning candidate must be able to operate in a complex political environment at the local, state, and federal levels and serve as a thought leader interacting with national experts in diverse fields including conservation, coastal resilience and sustainability, community redevelopment, and educational programming.

Finally, the new CEO must exhibit a passion for and love all things New Orleans.

CEO Competencies and Capabilities

• A strategic thought leader with proven strategic planning capability to map out a long-term vision and leverage competitive advantages to bring the vision to life.
• Track record for being politically aware and astute yet remain apolitical. Ability to sell a point of view in a non-polarizing manner, gaining consensus.
• Demonstrated executive leadership skill and documented capacity to operate in a complex political environment, engaging regularly with the Mayor, City Council, and other local, state, and federal government officials.
• Recognized as a key business leader in the hospitality, cultural attractions, and tourism sector.
• Record of success and skill at fundraising and cultivating donors in both one-on-one and group settings.
• Ability to build coalitions and blend interests to advance the mission and purpose of Audubon Nature Institute.
• Experienced leading senior level managers. A skilled delegator who empowers, not a micro-manager.
• Ability to develop business plans and pro formas. Possess the acuity to assess operations, financials, and personnel.

The Ideal Candidate

• Leadership stature to assume a central strategic role to strengthen and advance the mission and purpose of Audubon Nature Institute.
• A persona of leadership presence, with a charismatic, optimistic, and engaging personality.
• Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills. Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence policy efforts surrounding conservation, coastal science, sustainability, and resilience.
• Expertise and knowledge of the economic, environment, and regulatory issues that impact zoo/aquarium operations preferred.

The Qualifications

Experience: Ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including five years in a senior executive management capacity, preferably including experience leading a complex organization.

Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required, advanced degree preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

The Audubon Nature Institute Board is offering a competitive salary commensurate with experience. The CEO will also receive an excellent benefits package including the opportunity to participate in the Audubon Nature Institute's retirement plan.

How to Apply

This position is open until filled and may close at any time. Candidates are encouraged to apply early in the process for optimal consideration. Resumes will be reviewed and evaluated throughout the recruitment process.

To be considered, candidates must submit a cover letter, comprehensive resume, and five professional references.

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