Chief Executive Officer
Ijams Nature Center seeks an accomplished, mission-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead its work in environmental education, land conservation, outdoor recreation, and community impact along the Tennessee River. Ijams is a nationally respected nonprofit nature center and natural area near downtown Knoxville, spanning more than 336 acres of protected land and connecting hundreds of thousands of people each year to the natural world. A defining part of Knoxville's nationally known Urban Wilderness, Ijams is both a beloved community asset and a regional destination. The organization is financially sound, operationally strong, and supported by deep community trust and an engaged board, with a clear vision for continued growth.
About the role
The next CEO will inherit a stable, respected, and ambitious organization. They will sustain organizational excellence, steward a forthcoming $32M capital campaign, deepen key relationships across Knoxville and the region, and guide Ijams on its path of strategic growth while honoring its culture, values, and public trust. The role will appeal to a leader who thrives in complex environments, values collaboration, and is energized by balancing continuity with thoughtful evolution.
Responsibilities
- Sustain organizational excellence in environmental education, land conservation, and outdoor recreation.
- Steward a forthcoming $32M capital campaign.
- Deepen key relationships across Knoxville and the region.
- Guide Ijams on its path of strategic growth while honoring its culture, values, and public trust.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate thrives in complex environments, values collaboration, and is energized by balancing continuity with thoughtful evolution.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 403(b) retirement plan match
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
Pay
This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary range of $120,000 to $150,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
Schedule
- Full-time, on-site at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.
- Requires consistent physical presence on site and in the community to meet with partners, funders, and constituents.
- Occasional evening and weekend availability for events, programs, and organizational activities.