Executive Director

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive officer of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association (OCA). Under the policy direction of the Board of Directors and the direct supervision of the President, the ED is responsible for the leadership, management, and operational success of the Association. This includes strategic planning, financial oversight, government relations, membership growth, program administration, staff leadership, and effective communication with members, policymakers, and the public.

The ED ensures that OCA’s mission—to advocate for and advance Oregon’s cattle industry—is achieved through strong organizational leadership, proactive industry engagement, and effective representation at the state, federal, and community levels.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to tcox@beef.org by June 19, 2026.

Reporting Relationship
Reports to: President and Board of Directors
Supervises: Staff, contractors, interns, and volunteer committees

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Provide visionary leadership that advances OCA’s mission, values, and long-term strategic goals.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate strategic plans in partnership with the Board of Directors.
• Lead the development of new initiatives, programs, and partnerships that strengthen the cattle industry and support OCA members.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing organizational culture.
• Serve as a visible and respected leader within Oregon’s agricultural community.

2. Board Engagement & Governance Support

• Maintain strong, transparent communication with the Board, providing regular updates on operations, finances, policy issues, and program outcomes.
• Support the Board in fulfilling governance responsibilities, including strategic planning, policy development, and leadership recruitment.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination between staff, committees, and the Board.
• Implement Membership & Board-approved policies and directives.

3. Financial Management & Fundraising

• Oversee the financial health of the Association, including budget development, financial reporting, and adherence to sound fiscal practices.
• Manage the business and financial affairs of OCA and its affiliated entities, ensuring accountability, transparency, and sustainability.
• Lead fundraising efforts, including non-dues revenue generation, sponsorships, grants, and donor cultivation.
• Support fundraising initiatives for Oregon Cattle PAC, the Oregon Cattlemen’s Stewardship Fund, and special projects.

4. Government Relations & Advocacy

· Collaborate with the OCA Board of Directors to represent and advance the interests of the cattle industry before state and federal legislators, regulatory agencies, and other governmental bodies.

• Work closely with contract lobbyists, policy advisors, and coalition partners to advance OCA’s policy priorities.
• Prepare or assist in preparing testimony, policy briefs, and member communications on legislative and regulatory issues.
• Monitor and communicate developments in legislation, regulations, and court cases affecting the cattle industry.
• Advocate professionally and effectively on complex and potentially contentious issues such as environmental regulations, public lands, grazing, property rights, and consumer concerns.

5. Membership Growth & Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to grow and retain OCA membership.
• Ensure high-quality member services, including timely communication on industry issues, events, and organizational activities.
• Develop, support and strengthen, relationships with County, State and National partners.
• Facilitate strong communication and coordination between state-level and county-level committees.

6. Program Oversight & Organizational Operations

• Administer and implement OCA programs, initiatives, and events, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Oversee planning and execution of conventions, quarterly meetings, and special events.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation required for effective operations and compliance.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure operational excellence and ethical standards.

7. Staff Leadership & Human Resources

• Recruit, supervise, and develop staff, contractors, and interns.
• Provide leadership and coordination to volunteer committees to ensure effective execution of initiatives.
• Promote a supportive, productive, and safe work environment.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and employment requirements.

8. Communications, Public Relations & Media Engagement

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for OCA, representing the Association to media, stakeholders, and the public.
• Oversee a comprehensive communications and multimedia strategy that strengthens OCA’s brand and supports advocacy efforts.
• Ensure consistent, clear, and strategic messaging across all written and verbal communications.
• Publish regular updates to members on industry issues, organizational activities, and policy developments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Agriculture, Business, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Significant leadership experience, preferably within agriculture, natural resources, or nonprofit management.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, financial management, and organizational leadership.
• Proven experience in government relations, advocacy, or public policy.
• Strong understanding of the cattle industry and the issues affecting Oregon’s agricultural communities.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with members, policymakers, partners, and diverse stakeholders.
• Experience supervising staff and managing volunteers.
• Proficiency with relevant software, technology, and communication tools.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position with occasional evening and weekend commitments.
• Travel required for meetings, conferences, legislative sessions, and industry events.
• Work performed in a standard office environment with frequent off-site engagements.

Compensation

The expected salary range for this position is $110,000 – $135,000, depending on experience and qualifications. A competitive benefits package is also provided.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to tcox@beef.org by June 19, 2026.

Pay: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $110,000 - $135,000