Announcing 2026 Executive Director Search
Nearby Nature Milwaukee is an environmental justice and equity organization, operating on Milwaukee’s north side for over eight years. We have been an active presence in Milwaukee’s environmental community, advocating for access to and renewal of community green spaces. In 2022, former DNR Secretary Preston Cole called us “one of the most important environmental initiatives in the state.”
Nearby Nature helped found the African American Environmental Pioneer Awards honoring seventy-six professionals in the field over the past seven years. And we have nurtured environmental education programs in Milwaukee’s central city schools. Nearby Nature Milwaukee has focused its work on the 30th Street Corridor and Lincoln Creek Greenway, including partnering on native habitat restoration work with the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District at its “Hopkins Hollow” site on Lincoln Creek.
The Executive Director is a key member of the team working to build healthier and more resilient communities. We are seeking a skilled, energetic, motivated, and dynamic individual to carry the organization to its next level. Working closely with the Board of Directors, community partners, and stakeholders, the Executive Director will drive the successful implementation of the organization’s mission and accomplish its goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Organizational Development, Fundraising, and Leadership
Work with the board team to secure financial support, including grant funding. Represent the organization in the environmental community. Facilitate partnerships and activities that strengthen Nearby Nature Milwaukee programs and mission. Maintain relationships with key stakeholders. Lead and assist with publicity and media development. - Administrative and Financial Development
Develop and manage budgets, track expenses, and report payroll. Work with the bookkeeper to maintain records. Track donations, send acknowledgments, and work with the development team on grant writing and management. Support board governance by providing regular organizational reports (financial, operational, and programmatic). - Staff Management
Manage organizational human resources needs to ensure a healthy work environment for all. Facilitate staffing and hiring plans, including updating policies and procedures. Track and report staff hours. Meet regularly with staff to support performance, training, and professional development. - Project and Program Support
Work with staff to plan, support and grow Nearby Nature programs, including youth education, land stewardship, recreational programming, community service, and educational events.
Keys to Success
- Non-profit management experience
- Successful resource development and fundraising experience
- Experience managing budgets and organizational reports
- Proven commitment to community development
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Personal integrity, accountability, and reliability
- A background in environmental programming or science is helpful but not required
This work occurs mostly on Milwaukee’s north side. Applicants with experience working in Milwaukee and Milwaukee’s north side are preferred. Cultural competency to work in these areas is highly valued.
To learn more and see us in action, please view this presentation (formatted for viewing on mobile devices) www.bit.ly/NN_2025_Video
Compensation and Location
Compensation range is $70-$95,000 annual salary. Benefits include eleven paid holidays, vacation, sick and personal leave. A health insurance stipend is available. The Nearby Nature Board believes strongly in personal and professional development and will support involvement in conferences and educational programs. Position requires work at multiple locations in Milwaukee and allows for remote work when appropriate.
Hiring Timeline: Application opens on Monday, March 16, and closes on Friday, April 17 (or until position is filled).
Please send us your resume and cover letter of interest to:
A printable version of this announcement is available at this link.
For more information on Nearby Nature:
www.facebook.com/nearbynaturemke
2024-2025 Community Impact Video