Executive Director

The Moran CompanyHuntsville, AL

$130,000 - $150,000 / year

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Overview

Schedule

Full-time

Career level

Executive

Remote

Hybrid remote

Compensation

$130,000-$150,000/year

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Disability Insurance

Job Description

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.BackgroundFounded 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 SummaryThe 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 PrioritiesThe Executive Director will work with staff, volunteer leadership, and the Board of Governors to:

Strengthen organizational systems and capacity to support the Society’s long-term effectiveness and sustainability.
Foster productive collaboration among the Board, staff, Division Heads, committees, and NSS membership.
Strengthen membership engagement, retention, and organizational growth.
Expand and diversify fundraising, partnerships, paid staff, and other sources of financial support.
Ensure that NSS programs, properties, and operations effectively advance the Society’s mission and strategic priorities.

ResponsibilitiesOperations & Management

Assess organizational needs and strengthen systems, staffing, and resources necessary to support the Society’s long-term effectiveness and growth.
Supervise NSS staff and assess staffing needs and priorities in support of the Society’s mission and strategic plan.
Support staff professional development.
Provide leadership and oversight to NSS divisions, working regularly with Division Heads to ensure Society volunteers are well supported, effective, and aligned with the Society’s strategic plan.
Work with the Board of Governors to strengthen fundraising and development efforts, cultivate donor and prospective donor relationships, and pursue grant and other funding opportunities that support the Society’s financial sustainability.
Develop and maintain partnerships with industry and other external organizations that advance cave and karst conservation, science, and the interests of NSS members.
Identify and address staffing, resource, and organizational challenges as they arise.

Finance & Budgeting

Oversee organizational spending and financial performance and ensure expenditures are consistent with approved budgets and organizational policies.
Work with the Secretary-Treasurer and appropriate staff and Board leadership to develop the annual budget.
Monitor performance against the approved budget and ensure that accurate and timely financial reports are prepared and provided to the Board.
Identify external funding opportunities and coordinate grant development and applications in partnership with appropriate Division Teams and organizational leaders.

Board Communications & Relations

Work collaboratively with the Board of Governors to assess organizational needs, inform strategic planning, and execute the Society’s strategic priorities.
Ensure the Board receives timely and appropriate information regarding the activities, needs, and accomplishments of NSS divisions.
Regularly provide the Board with timely information regarding organizational operations, finances, priorities, needs, challenges, and significant developments.

Location & Compensation The National Speleological Society is headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama. The Executive Director is expected to work on site at NSS Headquarters at least three days per week. Relocation expense reimbursement may be available. The position requires periodic travel to NSS events and other meetings an estimated 20% of the year, although most work will be based in Huntsville.Salary range: $130,000–$150,000, depending on experience and qualifications.Benefits include:

Health and dental insurance
20 annual paid vacation days and paid sick leave
401(k) match (fully vested after 5 years)
Paid holidays
Life and disability insurance

Non-DiscriminationThe National Speleological Society is committed to diversity and inclusion. All interested individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.Application ProcessThe search for the National Speleological Executive Director is being conducted by The Moran Company. To apply, submit a cover letter and resume through the secure online application portal link below. Resume should include a complete employment history, including months and years of service. For the best opportunity of being considered, applications should be submitted by November 6, 2026. Questions may be directed to Steven Byers via Steve.Byers (at) MoranCompany.com.

PLEASE NOTE: All email correspondence from The Moran Company will originate from our official @morancompany.com domain or using our applicant tracking system domain @applytojob.com.

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FAQs About Executive Director Jobs at The Moran Company

What is the work location for this position at The Moran Company?

This job at The Moran Company is located in Huntsville, AL, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.

What pay range can candidates expect for this role at The Moran Company?

Candidates can expect a pay range of $130,000 and $150,000 per year.

What employment applies to this position at The Moran Company?

The Moran Company lists this role as a Full-time position.

What experience level is required for this role at The Moran Company?

The Moran Company is looking for a candidate with "Executive" experience level.

What benefits are offered by The Moran Company for this role?

The Moran Company offers following benefits: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Leave, and 401k Matching/Retirement Savings for this position. Actual benefits may vary depending on the employer's policies and employment terms.

What is the process to apply for this position at The Moran Company?

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