The Megafire Action team has been soliciting and securing the founding membership during the soft launch phase and, during this time, has also put forth letters of support and tax credit and reconciliation memos on behalf of AFI. There are nine founding members and the board formation process is underway. Megafire Action hired a strategic consultant to aid with planning and tasks related to the official launch, galvanizing membership, and establishing a strategic plan for the organization. Brand/marketing, growing membership, and financial-related tasks have been handled via a shared services agreement with the team employed by the 501c4 Megafire Action. This Executive Director position is a unique opportunity for the right individual to shape the future of AFI with early support from Megafire Action and the chance to significantly impact the industry (and related industries - energy, utilities, insurance) at a highly influential time.

Responsibilities of the Executive Director:

• Strategic planning: Develop and execute a comprehensive plan aligned with the Association's mission and vision, including identifying key industry trends and opportunities for membership. Collaborate with the Megafire Action shared services team to build a strategic plan that aims to make AFI a self-supporting organization by the end of 2026.
• Policy development: Develop policies and procedures to guide and build the policy strategy of the association. Work closely with the Megafire Action (501c4) policy team during the incubating phase to shape firetech opportunities for the association membership. Manage and supervise chosen lobbyist resources, with assistance from the Megafire Action Policy Director through 2026.
• Membership Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with members through outreach, communication, and engagement activities. Recruit new members and retain existing ones by providing valuable services and programs. Manage member committees and working groups to foster collaboration and participation.
• Membership & Fundraising: Work with the Growth and Operations lead for Megafire Action to build the organization's membership and funding mechanisms. Align and expand membership tiers, create sponsorship opportunities, and form coalitions with adjacent industry groups.
• Financial management: Oversee financial management, including budgets, cash flow, and income statements.
• Compliance: Ensure the organization complies with all laws and regulations, including federal and state rules.
• Board relations: Work with and support the board of directors on the continued mission and strategy of the association, providing updates on organizational performance and fueling the partnership opportunities and legislative action on behalf of the collective group.
• Community engagement and public relations: As the Executive Director, you will be crucial in fostering strategic partnerships and community engagement. You will be the organization's outward "face," Representing it at conferences and panels. Your role will be instrumental in shaping the public's perception of the organization, making your contribution invaluable to our success.
• Team building: Provide guidance and coaching to membership on being part of a collective - building upon a “we, and then me” mindset , and as the leadership team grows, work with subordinate managers to build an effective team of leaders.

Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, comfort with public speaking engagements
• Communication & collaboration skills for leading with strategic policy and managing alignment
• Background with USFS and/or related DOA and DOI agency workings a plus
• Strong sense of purpose for the organization, outward leadership, and promotion skills
• Industry acumen of wildfire and familiarity with community, state, and federal resources for wildfire
• Ability to execute tasks necessary to forge policy changes at the federal level

What makes candidates stand out:

• Strong interest in wildfire, environmental/climate change, public policy, and legislative advocacy
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working with diverse stakeholders.
• Public presence, engagement - articulate, compelling speaking style
• Familiarity with legislative processes and governmental affairs is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowing when to ask for help – while official government actions are slow, the day-to-day moves fast. A willingness to learn and flex to change and organizational style & sentiment is a must.

Duration & Compensation:

• Hours: Full-time/40 hours per week.
• Location: Remote
• Paid leave: Flexible PTO
• Healthcare and lifestyle stipends
• Retirement benefits eligible after 6 mos employment in good standing