Interim Executive Director (Volunteer)

Interim Executive Director (Volunteer)

North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS)

Location: North Alabama (Hybrid/Flexible)
Position Type: Volunteer \| Interim (12–18 months)
Compensation: Volunteer (Unpaid)
Reports To: Board of Directors

Help Build the North Alabama Zoo

The North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS) is seeking an exceptional community leader to serve as our Interim Executive Director. NALZS is a volunteer led organization.

This is more than an administrative role. It is an opportunity to help lead one of North Alabama's most exciting community initiatives—bringing a world\-class zoological park to our region.

During a planned executive sabbatical, the Interim Executive Director will become the primary leader responsible for advancing the organization's mission, growing its community presence, strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding fundraising efforts, and helping move the North Alabama Zoo from vision to reality.

Position Summary

The Interim Executive Director serves as the chief operating executive of NALZS and is responsible for leading the organization's daily operations while continuing to grow the organization and build public support for the future North Alabama Zoo.

Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Interim Executive Director will execute the organization's strategic vision, strengthen community partnerships, expand fundraising efforts, and represent NALZS throughout North Alabama.

The President \& CEO will remain available as a strategic advisor and resource but will step away from day\-to\-day leadership, allowing the Interim Executive Director to lead the organization with confidence and authority.

Primary ResponsibilitiesOrganizational Leadership

• Lead the day\-to\-day operations of NALZS.
• Execute the strategic direction established by the Board of Directors.
• Build and develop the executive leadership team and volunteers.
• Ensure the organization continues to grow in capability, professionalism, and effectiveness.
• Provide regular updates and recommendations to the Board of Directors.

Community \& Civic Leadership

• Serve as the public face of NALZS throughout North Alabama.
• Build relationships with local, county, and state elected officials.
• Strengthen partnerships with civic organizations, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, conservation organizations, and community leaders.
• Represent NALZS at public meetings, community events, speaking engagements, and networking opportunities.
• Continue building public awareness and support for the North Alabama Zoo.

Fundraising \& Development

• Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and philanthropic partners.
• Lead fundraising initiatives and sponsorship opportunities.
• Support grant development and donor stewardship.
• Expand the organization's network of supporters, advocates, and corporate partners.

Strategic Growth

• Continue advancing the vision for the North Alabama Zoo.
• Identify opportunities to grow membership, volunteers, partnerships, and organizational influence.
• Help position NALZS for future land acquisition, capital fundraising, and long\-term organizational success.

Time Commitment

This is a volunteer executive leadership position requiring an active, hands\-on commitment.

Candidates should expect to dedicate 20–30 hours per week, depending on organizational priorities, events, and ongoing initiatives. Work is flexible and self\-directed but will include:

• Daytime meetings with community leaders, donors, elected officials, and partner organizations.
• Evening meetings with the Board of Directors, committees, volunteers, and community groups.
• Weekend attendance at fundraising events, outreach activities, and other organizational functions as needed.
• Regular communication with volunteers, sponsors, and stakeholders throughout the week.

Because much of NALZS's work involves community engagement and relationship building, flexibility in scheduling is essential. Candidates should expect a combination of daytime, evening, and occasional weekend commitments.

Desired Qualifications

• Executive or senior leadership experience in nonprofit, business, government, military, education, or community organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, volunteers, and organizational initiatives.
• Strong relationship\-building and networking skills.
• Experience working with boards of directors and volunteers.
• Success in fundraising, business development, public affairs, government relations, or community leadership.
• Financial stewardship and organizational management experience.
• Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking skills.
• Passion for conservation, education, community development, and building organizations.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is someone who:

• Is a servant leader with integrity and vision.
• Has the flexibility and availability to actively represent NALZS throughout the community.
• Enjoys building relationships with civic leaders, elected officials, businesses, donors, and volunteers.
• Is comfortable speaking publicly and serving as the face of the organization.
• Can organize people, build momentum, and accomplish strategic goals.
• Is collaborative, self\-motivated, and mission\-driven.
• Believes in leaving a lasting legacy for North Alabama.

Why Volunteer?

This is a unique opportunity to help shape one of North Alabama's most ambitious community projects.

As Interim Executive Director, you will help expand an organization dedicated to creating a destination that will educate future generations, inspire wildlife conservation, strengthen tourism, enhance economic development, and improve the quality of life throughout our region.

Your leadership will directly influence the future of the North Alabama Zoo and help turn a shared community vision into reality.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A résumé highlighting leadership experience.
• A brief letter describing their interest in the position, relevant experience, and why they want to help bring the North Alabama Zoo to life.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.

Join us in helping create a lasting legacy for North Alabama.

Pay: $0\.10 \- $1\.00 per year

Application Question(s):

• Are you able to give 20\+ hours a week with some meetings during the day and some in the evenings as well as support weekend events?

Experience:

• Senior leadership: 10 years (Preferred)

Location:

• Athens, AL 35611 (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Athens, AL 35611 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Athens, AL 35611