National not-for-profit Outdoor Afro seeks executive director
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – Outdoor Afro seeks an operational executive director to support the national network’s developing programs and growing team. “In our ‘Year of Operations,’ Outdoor Afro is searching for a passionate and strategic executive leader who is also a proven and savvy organizational manager,” said Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO Rue Mapp. “I look forward to being a thought partner with this person and helping support the sustainable growth trajectory of our organization.”
This hire is a new position for the national organization and network. Outdoor Afro started as a social enterprise for Mapp in 2009. She incorporated Outdoor Afro in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) and has led the organization since as its CEO. The organization has grown from a one-woman blog and three founding board members to 12 full-time staff and a 13-member Board of Directors. Its operating budget has grown from a modest $110,000 in revenue in 2015 to now more than $2.5 million – largely from foundations, individuals, and corporate partner support.
The executive director will report to the board and serve as communications liaison between the board and staff. This new role will direct Outdoor Afro’s strategic growth efforts and operational efficiency to meet the moment of rapid growth for the organization. In partnership with Mapp, key board members, and staff, the executive director will function as the chief architect to oversee the strategic implementation of best-in-class, not-for-profit operations.
The selected candidate will construct and manage the necessary infrastructure to enable Outdoor Afro’s growth of its national programs and participation network around the United States. As founder, Mapp will remain Outdoor Afro’s CEO and spokeswoman. “After reviewing the position specifications,” said Mapp, “anyone is welcome to apply who feels they meet the qualifications for this important and compelling leadership opportunity.” Interested candidates can submit a resume and cover letter to people@outdoorafro.org, speaking to qualifications per the position specifications here.
*Pictured above is Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO Rue Mapp. Photo by Tiffanie Page.
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow Outdoor Afro at outdoorafro.org and @outdoorafro today.