CCE of Saratoga County Executive Director – Ballston Spa, NY

Cornell Cooperative Extension•New York, NY

6d•$105,300 - $125,128•Onsite

About The Position

The Executive Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, advancing the organization’s mission in alignment with Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Land Grant system. The role integrates organizational vision, strategy, and community needs into impactful programs and sustainable practices, and works closely with the Board of Directors on governance, policy development, compliance, and long-term planning. As the organization’s primary public representative, the Executive Director builds and maintains relationships with staff, volunteers, board members, Cornell University partners, donors, grantors, elected officials, community leaders, the media, and the public. The position oversees program direction, fundraising and financial stewardship, facilities and asset management, risk and emergency preparedness, compliance, information systems, human resources, and volunteer engagement. It also strengthens connections with Cornell faculty, Extension networks, and system partners to support collaboration, innovation, and effective service to the community. This is a full-time, exempt position based in a typical office environment. The role requires a strong physical presence in the Association and county, travel within the county, region, and state as needed, and flexible hours that may include evenings and weekends. Compensation is $105,300 to $125,128 annually. No relocation or visa sponsorship is available.

Requirements

Master’s degree and at least six years of related professional experience, including four years in a leadership role; a Ph.D. may substitute for one year of experience.
Demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, sound judgment, change management, business acumen, problem-solving, and people management skills.
Experience within Cornell Cooperative Extension, public/governmental, or nonprofit leadership.
Demonstrated knowledge of fund development, grants, and revenue enhancement.
Ability to meet travel requirements within the county, region, and state as needed.
Maintain an approved driver’s license that meets insurance eligibility standards.
Proven experience with risk management in a business environment.
Successful track record of building and maintaining partnerships with boards, government officials, community leaders, funders, and other stakeholders.
Ability to learn and effectively use the internet, program-related software, virtual meeting tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

Experience within Cornell Cooperative Extension, public/governmental, or nonprofit leadership.
Knowledge or understanding of one or more Cornell Cooperative Extension priority areas: agriculture and food systems; community and economic vitality; environment and natural resources, sustainable energy and climate change; nutrition, food safety and security, and obesity prevention; or 4-H youth development and strengthening families.

Responsibilities

Lead collaborative strategic planning and implementation with the Board and staff; guide organizational change and achievement of strategic goals.
Support effective Board governance and partnership, identify policy and operational needs, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and system regulations.
Oversee program development, delivery, evaluation, applied research, and alignment with the organization’s mission and identified community needs.
Ensure programs have clear objectives, outcomes, and activities; use stakeholder feedback and metrics to support continuous improvement and reporting.
Serve as the organization’s primary brand ambassador and public representative at functions, meetings, and events.
Communicate program impact and organizational effectiveness to stakeholders and cultivate relationships with grantors, donors, elected officials, community members, and the media.
Oversee digital communication platforms, including the website and social media, and ensure content aligns with organizational goals and Cornell/CCE brand standards.
Set fundraising strategy, cultivate supporters, secure grants and contracts aligned with Board priorities, manage donor and grantor relationships, and oversee county appropriation and resources processes.
Develop and manage budgets; oversee accounting, financial controls, financial reporting, funder requirements, audits, and internal reviews.
Provide oversight of facilities and physical assets, including appropriate use, upkeep, repairs, replacement, and workplace safety.
Lead risk management and emergency preparedness, maintain the Association Emergency Response Plan, and ensure insurance and legal compliance.
Ensure adequate records and systems are maintained in compliance with applicable laws and contractual requirements.
Oversee human resources operations, including workforce planning, recruitment, hiring, onboarding, policy compliance, staff supervision, performance evaluation, and staff development.
Provide strategic oversight of volunteer management, policies, engagement, relationships, and volunteer support in accordance with CCE Administration and risk management guidelines.
Ensure information technology, cybersecurity, data stewardship, records management, and protection of information assets comply with Cornell, CCE, legal, regulatory, and funder requirements; collaborate on secure and sustainable technology systems.
Build collaborative relationships with Cornell faculty and staff, connect community needs with Cornell resources, and participate in Extension system gatherings and professional development.
Meet travel requirements and maintain an approved driver’s license that meets insurance eligibility standards.
Prepare and submit timely expense reports, mileage reports, receipts, supporting documentation, and vouchers; review and approve direct reports’ time-off requests.
Develop and pursue a professional development plan with the Board President and support Cornell Cooperative Extension activities and other assigned duties.
Lead efforts to maintain a safe working environment, follow applicable health and safety requirements, and proactively prevent and communicate hazards.
Adhere to Association policies, procedures, and Cornell Cooperative Extension Skills for Success, and perform assigned duties professionally, timely, and accurately.