Tortoise Group

Executive Director- Job Description
2025-04-26
Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Tortoise Group
Reports to: Board of Directors
Salary Range: $55,000- $60,000 + stipend for benefits

Since 1982, Tortoise Group, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, has been educating and advocating for the protection and well-being of the desert tortoise as its mission. Tortoise Group focuses on managing the pet desert tortoise population in Nevada, education and outreach surrounding the desert tortoise, and partnering with other agencies on conservation projects serving wild desert tortoise populations. The Mojave desert tortoise is listed as ‘threatened’ under the Endangered Species Act. Because of its listing, desert tortoises are considered wildlife that belong to the people of Nevada. Tortoise Group is recognized as the only agency legally allowed to adopt desert tortoises to custodians within the state of Nevada.

Summary
The Executive Director is responsible for working closely with the board of directors to successfully implement Tortoise Group’s mission. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization’s operations, including program delivery, fundraising, financial management, staff/volunteer supervision, strategic planning and cultivating donor relationships.

Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Vision:
Articulate the organization’s mission and vision, guiding strategic direction and setting goals in collaboration with the board of directors.
Fundraising and Development:
Actively manage all fundraising efforts including identifying potential donors, grant writing, donor cultivation, and stewardship, often taking a hands-on approach to solicit donations.
Financial Management:
Develop and oversee the organization’s budget, ensuring financial stability and compliance with regulations.
Program Implementation:
Manage program operations, ensuring quality delivery of services and achieving program goals, demonstrate an understanding of the life of the desert tortoise.
Staff Supervision:
Lead and motivate a small team, including hiring, performance management, and staff development.
Community Engagement:
Build relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and potential donors to raise awareness and support for the organization.
Board Relations:
Collaborate closely with the board of directors, providing regular updates on operations and financial performance, and seeking their guidance on strategic decisions.
Marketing and Communications:
Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the organization’s programs and services, including managing the organization’s online presence.
Compliance and Reporting:
Ensure adherence to all legal and regulatory requirements, including filing necessary and timely reports with relevant agencies.
Ideal Candidate Skills:
– Strong passion for the organization’s mission
– Nonprofit and fundraising experience
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
– Budget management and financial reporting
– Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
– Project management and organizational skills
– Knowledge of nonprofit regulations and compliance
– Adaptable and resourceful
Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, biology or animal sciences, or related field
– 3-5 years of experience in a leadership role

If interested, please submit your resume to: info@tortoisegroup.org
