Executive Director

Greenways for Nashville

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Job Summary

The Opportunity
Greenways for Nashville (GfN) seeks a visionary leader to guide the organization’s next chapter of growth and impact. Since 1994, GfN has supported the Metro Nashville Parks Department’s work in developing over 100 miles of greenway trails, preserving thousands of acres of open space, and championing a healthier, more connected Nashville.

As Executive Director, you will lead strategic efforts to expand the greenway network, strengthen community engagement, and advocate for conservation, equitable access to outdoor recreation, and connectivity. You’ll collaborate with Metro Parks, elected officials, developers, and community partners to champion key projects while driving fundraising efforts and broad-based support for GfN’s mission.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected nonprofit, shaping the future of Nashville’s public spaces and making a lasting impact on the city’s sustainability, livability, and quality of life.

About Greenways for Nashville:
Founded in 1994, Greenways for Nashville (GfN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enhancing and expanding Nashville’s greenway system in partnership with Metro Parks Greenways and Open Space Division and the Greenways and Open Space Commission. In addition to helping create over 100 miles of linear parks, GfN has influenced the protection of over 2,700 acres of floodplain and supported the acquisition of more than 7,000 acres of parkland.

GfN advocates for preserving natural and cultural areas, developing community recreational spaces, and acquiring land for greenways and parks. The organization educates the community, promotes equitable access to recreational areas, and leverages public and private resources to support Metro Parks’ efforts to build, enhance, and conserve greenways and open spaces.  GfN is committed to ensuring equitable access so all community members can safely experience a welcoming network of greenways for health, recreation, and alternative transportation.

Mission:  Greenways for Nashville promotes, supports, and enhances greenways and open spaces in Nashville and Davidson County.

Position Summary:
The Executive Director (ED) is responsible for leading all aspects of Greenways for Nashville’s operations, fundraising, partnerships, and advocacy. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will implement GfN’s strategic plan, manage a talented staff, and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Metro Parks, elected officials, community organizations, and donors.

Job Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Board and Committee Leadership

• Facilitate Board of Directors and Executive Committee meetings, including preparing agendas and reports.
• Support Board committees, including Board Development, Finance, Communications, Strategic Planning, Advocacy, and Special Event Committees 
• Support and cultivate relationships with the Greenways and Open Space Commission and the Metro Board of Parks and Recreation.

Strategic Leadership and Staff Supervision

• Align organizational activities with GfN’s strategic framework and report on progress to the Board.
• Supervise and support staff, including the Community Relations and Development Manager, Marketing and Communications Manager, and Program Coordinator.
• Oversee contractors, including event management and production firms, creative services, Trailhead Restoration Project Manager, and Contract Accountant.

Community and Partner Engagement

• Serve as a liaison with key partners, including Metro Parks, the Mayor’s Office, Metro Council, and other community organizations.
• Represent GfN at public events, speaking engagements, and press opportunities.

Fundraising and Development

• Support and expand fundraising efforts, including sponsorships, grants, donor recognition, and capital campaigns.
• Lead the annual Year-End Appeal and cultivate relationships with individual and corporate donors and foundations.

Financial and Administrative Management

• Develop and manage the annual budget.
• Ensure accurate financial reporting, oversee QuickBooks and DonorPerfect systems, and manage annual audits and tax filings.
• Oversee payroll, staff benefits, insurance coverages, and compliance with nonprofit regulations.

Event and Project Oversight

• Provide leadership for GfN events, including the Richland Creek Run, Dinner by the Bridge, and volunteer celebrations.
• Oversee the Trailhead Restoration Project, a multi-year, high-profile initiative to improve greenway trailheads.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

• Proven experience leading and managing within a nonprofit or comparable organization, with skills in staff, budget, and strategic plan management.
• Demonstrated success in raising funds through diverse sources, such as major donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and/or events.
• Proven ability to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and community partners.
• Understanding of local government processes.
• Ability to articulate and implement a long-term organizational vision while balancing operational details and project management.
• Commitment to greenways and their environmental, recreational, transportation, and health benefits, ideally as a user and advocate.
• Strong people management, collaborative leadership style, and ability to foster a positive, motivated team while navigating complex stakeholder dynamics.
• Excellent communication skills and public speaking experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in conservation, mobility, or public space projects.
• Familiarity with Nashville’s community, donors, and stakeholders.
• Marketing and public relations skills to effectively promote the organization’s impact.

Compensation and Benefits:
Greenways for Nashville offers a competitive salary, paid vacation and holidays, and an option for health insurance.

Salary Range: $90,000 to $110,000, based on experience

Location: The Greenways for Nashville office is located at 2565 Park Plaza, Nashville, TN.

To Apply: Greenways for Nashville has retained the services of ThinkingAhead Executive Search.

Please submit your resume and expression of interest to Chris Spagnola at: cspagnola@thinkingahead.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Greenways for Nashville is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Additional Information

Benefits

How to Apply

To Apply: Greenways for Nashville has retained the services of ThinkingAhead Executive Search.

Please submit your resume and expression of interest to Chris Spagnola at: cspagnola@thinkingahead.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Greenways for Nashville is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Details

• Date Posted: April 10, 2025
• Type: Full-Time
• Job Function: Executive Leadership
• Service Area: Community Development
• Start Date: 07/01/2025
• Salary Range: $90,000-$110,000
• Working Hours: 40 hrs/wk