The Maine Recreation and Parks Association (MRPA) is seeking an organized, motivated, and outgoing person to fill the position of Executive Director. MRPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all through the advancement of the parks and recreation field.

At the direction of a volunteer Board of Directors, this position oversees the daily operations of MRPA including finances, recruiting and supporting volunteers, industry advocacy, maintaining membership services for 300 members and general execution of business.

The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal, problem solving and communication skills. Experience in working within a team, managing volunteers and event planning preferred. Knowledge of municipal parks and recreation departments strongly preferred but not required.

This is a remote, part time (20 hours) per week, contracted position, with monthly in-person meetings. Pay range is $24.00 - $30.00 per hour. Employee will accrue paid leave. This position will start in June of 2024.

Application Requirements: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and three references for review. Documents can be submitted through the application portal, located at merpa.org.

For more information about the Maine Recreation and Park Association, please visit merpa.org. Please direct questions to Nicole Welch, MRPA President:

Maine Recreation and Parks Association

Executive Director Job Description

Essential Functions:

• Recruit, train and mentor association members to serve on various committees to support association operations.
• Manage association finances in coordination with board treasurer; process deposits, payments, investments and tax returns as needed.
• Build association membership by recruiting new members and retaining existing members. Provide an exceptional level of customer service to members.
• In collaboration with the association Board of Directors, develop and implement a strategic operating plan that incorporates budget, finances and policy.
• Manage association events in coordination with volunteer committees, including working with vendors, negotiating contracts, soliciting sponsorship, and serve as point person for all logistics.
• Represent MRPA at external conferences, trainings, meetings with particular attention to our partnership with the National Recreation and Parks Association and Council of State Executive Directors, and local and statewide organizations as assigned.
• Advocate for the Parks and Recreation profession and the essential services MRPA provides to all sectors of communities. This responsibility includes working on public policy that may impact the Association and the parks and recreation profession.
• Remain current on trends within and outside the profession that are relevant to the Parks and Recreation field. Share new initiatives with members as appropriate.
• Maintain website and online membership directory.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding member’s personal information and proprietary information of the Association.

Knowledge, Education, and Experience

• Knowledge of parks and recreation profession.
• Bachelor's Degree in related field (business management, recreation management, leadership, etc.); five to seven years relevant experience, preferably in non-profit and volunteer management or executive level decision making; or an equivalent combination of education and experiences
• Experience recruiting and establishing working relationships with vendors and sponsors.
• Working knowledge on non-profit law and regulatory responsibilities of non-profit agencies.
• Financial management experience.
• Knowledge of event/meeting planning; experience reviewing contracts
• Valid Maine state driver’s license and automobile insurance

Skills and Abilities Required

• Ability to read, analyze and interpret contracts, insurance policies and other legal documents.
• Ability to write speeches, articles, draft policies and agreements and present information to public groups and/or Board of Directors.
• Ability to exclude personal bias from work performance, exercise tact and diplomacy, and strive to promote and maintain a cooperative workplace atmosphere.
• Ability to multi-task and move from project to project quickly.
• Ability to take initiative, accept constructive criticism, be dependable, maintain a positive attitude and represent the organization in a professional, courteous manner.
• Ability to establish a team environment and maintain effective working relationships with others; be consistent in dealing with people; actively listen and be sensitive to others concerns.
• Advanced computer skills; ability to learn new programs quickly.
• Ability to obtain knowledge of state ethics laws and how they pertain to non-profit associations and their members.

Physical Demands and Requirements

• Typically sitting at a desk or table.
• Intermittently sitting, standing or stooping.
• Occasional lifting of light objects (less than 24 pounds).
• Occasional lifting of objects weighing 25-50 pounds.
• Work is primarily performed in a home office; work may occasionally be performed on site at events, conferences, training, and other meetings related to the board of directors.
• Overnight travel (up to 5 consecutive days at a time) may be required

MRPA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. MRPA is strongly committed to diversity. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract

Pay: $24.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 19 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person