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Job Listings > Executive Director

Executive Director

Blue Hill Heritage Trust

Opening posted: 10/09/2026 | Expires: 11/13/2026

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About Blue Hill Heritage Trust

Blue Hill Heritage Trust (BHHT) is a nationally accredited, community-based land trust dedicated to conserving the land, water, and wildlife habitat of Maine’s Blue Hill Peninsula. Since 1985, BHHT has protected over 13,000 acres—including farmlands, forests, shorelines, and 56+ miles of public trails—to foster ecological health, local livelihoods, sustainability, and strong community connections.

Role Overview

BHHT seeks a strategic and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of conservation, community engagement, and organizational strength. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director oversees all strategic planning, fundraising, operations, staff leadership, and community partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Partner with the Board to implement organizational priorities, expand conservation impact, and adapt strategies to environmental and community needs.
  • Fundraising & Donor Relations: Lead major individual, institutional, and grant-based fundraising initiatives to secure sustainable funding for acquisitions and operations.
  • Operations & Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, risk management, and long-term financial health to ensure strong operational governance.
  • Team & Organizational Culture: Lead and empower staff through delegation, development, and accountability, fostering a collaborative culture.
  • Community & Partner Engagement: Act as a visible, approachable, trusted ambassador to residents, municipalities, commercial landholders, farmers, regional land trusts, and Wabanaki tribal nations.

Required Qualifications

  • Executive Leadership: 7–10+ years of senior management experience in a nonprofit setting preferred, with direct staff supervision and board partnership.
  • Fundraising Success: Proven record of accomplishment in major donor stewardship, capital campaigns, and institutional grants.
  • Financial Acumen: Strong capability in fiscal management, budgeting, and strategic resource allocation.
  • Communication & Advocacy: Excellent public speaking, writing, and relationship-building skills across diverse local stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Background in land conservation, environmental advocacy, or place-based community work.
  • Experience leading nonprofits through growth phases, capital campaigns, or executive transitions.
  • Deep understanding of rural community dynamics, working lands, and Maine conservation priorities.
  • Undergraduate or graduate degree in environmental sciences or related field.
  • Ability to thrive through all seasons of rural Maine life.
  • Demonstrated personal connection to the natural world, whether through foraging, hunting, outdoor recreation, or simply an appreciation for nature.

Additional Information