Benefits:
401(k)
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Training & development
Job Posting: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), President
Organization: Emancipation Park Conservancy
Location: 3018 Emancipation Ave, Houston, Texas 77004
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Board Chairman
Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
About Emancipation Park Conservancy Founded in 1872 by former enslaved citizens, Emancipation Park Conservancy is Houston’s first public park and a treasured 10-acre green space near downtown Houston, the Third Ward, and several educational institutions. Our mission is to enrich community well-being by preserving and promoting parks, recreation, education, cultural, and wellness programs that foster engagement, environmental stewardship, and quality of life.
Position Overview We seek a visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead Emancipation Park Conservancy into a new era of growth, impactful guest experiences, and innovative programs. The CEO will be responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, financial sustainability, and stakeholder relationships. This role requires collaboration with the Board of Directors, staff, government officials, non-profit partners, and community leaders.
Key Responsibilities Leadership • Provide visionary and strategic leadership, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation. • Identify and cultivate talent, empowering staff to excel in their roles.
Financial Management • Oversee organizational financial health, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. • Develop and implement strategies to increase revenue via grants, sponsorships, and rentals.
Program Development • Design and expand diverse recreational and cultural offerings to boost community participation and enhance the organization’s profile.
Donor & Sponsor Engagement • Cultivate and sustain relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners. • Lead fundraising strategies and campaigns to secure critical financial support.
Community Engagement • Serve as the organization’s primary spokesperson at events, public meetings, and through media outreach, promoting our mission and values.
Board Collaboration • Partner with the Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, strategic planning, financial oversight, and organizational performance.
Qualifications • Proven executive leadership experience, ideally in the non-profit sector, parks and recreation, or related fields. • Strong financial acumen with success managing budgets and enhancing revenue streams. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills capable of engaging diverse stakeholders and building lasting relationships. • Demonstrated success in fundraising, sponsorship acquisition, and community engagement. • Passion for parks, recreation, K-12 education programs, and community service with commitment to enhancing community quality of life.
Preferred:
• Master’s degree in business administration, Public Administration, or related discipline. • Experience designing effective programs and impactful events within non-profit or recreational settings. • Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations affecting parks and recreation operations.
Application Process Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three professional references to:
Email: dwade@epconservancy.org
Subject Line: CEO Application - [Your Name]
Deadline: November 1, 2025
Emancipation Park Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Ready to shape the future of Emancipation Park Conservancy and make a lasting community impact? We look forward to your application!