The Arlee Community Development Corporation (ACDC) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead our organization, fostering a vibrant, resilient, and culturally rich community. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of ACDC, ensuring the effective delivery of programs that promote community development, Indigenous knowledge, and access to local food within the Arlee community.

 

About the Arlee Community Development Corporation

ACDC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents of Arlee, Montana, particularly through initiatives that support economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and food security. We work collaboratively with community members, local organizations, and Tribal entities to identify needs, develop innovative solutions, and implement impactful projects that reflect the unique heritage and aspirations of our community. Our programs include, but are not limited to, community resources, heritage preservation, food sovereignty initiatives, and economic development support.

 

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of the unique strengths, challenges, and cultural context of living and working within a Tribal and reservation community, and demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing food sovereignty. This includes recognizing the impacts of rural isolation, economic disparities, and historical inequities that contribute to food insecurity, as well as valuing community-driven solutions.

 

The Executive Director must be able to lead with cultural awareness and humility, ensuring that programs are responsive, respectful, and grounded in meeting community members where they are. A successful candidate champions efforts that not only increase access to nutritious food, but also support long-term, sustainable approaches reflecting the community’s values, traditions, and vision for self-determination.

 

Responsibilities

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   Leadership and Strategic Direction

• Provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for ACDC, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission, values, and community needs.

• Leads development, implementation, and evaluation of ACDC's strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors and staff.

• Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the organization.

• Stays informed about best practices in community development, Indigenous economic development, and food systems.

   

   Program Development and Oversight

• Oversees the planning, development, and execution of all ACDC programs and initiatives, ensuring they are impactful, culturally relevant, and responsive to community priorities.

• Ensures the effective management of existing programs, including the ACDC Food Pantry and other community resources.

• Identifies opportunities for new programs and partnerships that address emerging community needs and leverage available resources.

   

   Fundraising and Financial Management

• Leads all fundraising and resource development efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and special events, to ensure the financial sustainability of ACDC.

• Develops and manages the annual operating budget, ensuring responsible fiscal management and compliance with all financial regulations.

• Oversees financial reporting, audits, and other compliance requirements.

• Diversifies funding streams to enhance organizational stability and growth.

   

   Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Serves as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for ACDC, representing the organization to community members, local government, Tribal entities, funders, and other stakeholders.

• Builds and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with community leaders, residents, businesses, and partner organizations.

• Actively engages with the community to understand needs, gather feedback, and ensure programs are community driven.

• Advocates for policies and practices that support equitable and sustainable community development in Arlee.

   

   Operations and Administration

• Manages day-to-day operations of ACDC, ensuring efficient and effective administrative processes.

• Oversees human resources, including staff recruitment, hiring, supervision, and professional development.

• Ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements for non-profit organizations.

• Maintains accurate records and reporting for all organizational activities.

   

   Board Relations

• Works closely with the Board of Directors to facilitate effective governance, strategic planning, and fundraising efforts.

• Provides regular and comprehensive reports to the Board on organizational performance, financial status, and program outcomes.

• Supports the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary and oversight responsibilities.

   

   Qualifications

• Highly proficient in a relevant field (e.g., Community Development, Non-profit Management, Public Administration, Business, Social Sciences).

• Progressive leadership experience in a non-profit organization, with a strong focus on community development, social justice, or related fields.

• Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant writing, and cultivating diverse funding sources.

• Proven experience in strategic planning, program development, and operational management.

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, including public speaking and the ability to articulate a compelling vision.

• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting.

• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including community members, Tribal entities, government officials, and funders.

• Knowledgeable about Indigenous cultures and community development principles, particularly within a Tribal context, is highly desirable.

• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team.

• Proficiency in relevant software and technology.

• Commitment to the mission and values of the Arlee Community Development Corporation.

 

Salary to be determined based on experience and qualifications.

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To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position, a resume, and contact information for three professional references to info@arleecdc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

 

The Arlee Community Development Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.