Required Experience:
Ideal Candidate The strongest candidates will demonstrate:
Leadership & Vision
o A strategic thinker able to develop and communicate a cohesive long-range vision while
ensuring operational alignment.
o A charismatic, relationship-oriented leader who inspires donors, partners, and staff.
Financial & Fundraising Acumen
o Significant experience in nonprofit fundraising, including major gifts, grant acquisition, and
capital campaigns.
o Strong financial management skills, with a commitment to transparency and shared visibility.
Operational & Organizational Strength
o Ability to build systems, structures, and processes that support clarity, documentation, and
consistent execution.
o Demonstrated success managing and mentoring staff, improving morale, and fostering a
collaborative culture.
Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Building
o Experience working with public agencies, civic partners, nonprofits, and community groups.
o Effective communication and storytelling skills that strengthen GRPC’s visibility and influence.
Personal Attributes such as integrity, transparency, empathy, resourcefulness, and resilience—qualities
emphasized by both Board and staff.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, urban planning, business administration,
political science, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience: Seven years of progressively responsible leadership experience in one or more of the
following: nonprofit management, business improvement districts, downtown associations, municipal
government, or other closely related field.
Salary & Benefits
The annual salary range for this position is $149,000 - $158,000, as well as benefits package that includes
access to medical, dental, vision and retirement savings. The final candidate’s qualifications and experience will
determine the actual salary.
This recruitment will be handled with strict confidentiality. References will not be contacted until mutual
interest has been established.
Application & Selection Process Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply online by
Monday, May 18, 2026 via email to jobs@grpg.org
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Duties / Expectations:
Executive Director
Guadalupe River Park Conservancy
438 Coleman Avenue, San Jose, CA 95110
$149,000 - $158,000 a year
Skills
Do you have experience in Senior leadership?
Education
Do you have a Bachelor's degree?
Benefits
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Dental insurance
Full job description
The Guadalupe River Park Conservancy (GRPC) seeks a strategic, visionary, and people-centered Executive
Director to lead the organization through an important period of renewal, stabilization, and opportunity. The
next Executive Director will play a pivotal role in shaping GRPC’s future as a vital civic asset: advancing the
health, resilience, and vibrancy of the Guadalupe River Park and the communities it serves.
GRPC is a 501(c)(3) organization providing community leadership for the development and active use of the
Guadalupe River Park & Gardens through education, advocacy and stewardship. We are the City of San José’s
nonprofit partner leading park programming and management. We envision a civic greenway that connects
people to nature and each other, and uplifts neighborhoods through San José’s front yard.
GRPC is at a moment of both challenge and promise. The organization needs a leader who can provide clear
direction, financial stability, and operational strength while amplifying GRPC’s role as a connector among
public agencies, philanthropic partners, community groups, and park users. The ideal candidate combines
big-picture vision with the ability to build systems, support staff, and execute effectively.
Key Responsibilities of the Executive Director
Strengthen and diversify GRPC’s fundraising, including major donors, grants, corporate partnerships, and
capital campaign development.
Provide transparent and disciplined financial leadership, ensuring stable cash flow and clear reporting
to staff and Board.
Build internal organizational systems, including documentation, onboarding, role clarity, and
communication rhythms that support effective, coordinated work.
Strengthen staff morale, mentorship, and retention through clear expectations, supportive leadership,
and professional development opportunities.
Serve as GRPC’s external ambassador, cultivating strong partnerships with the City of San José,
community groups, nonprofits, funders, and civic leaders.
Advance GRPC’s visibility and park activation efforts to ensure ongoing community engagement.
Immediate & Near-Term Priorities
The next Executive Director will be expected to:
Stabilize GRPC’s funding and financial systems, creating clear structures for revenue growth and
cash-flow management.
Rebuild internal systems, documentation, and staff support to restore morale, clarify roles, and ensure
operational consistency.
Strengthen GRPC’s partnerships and civic presence, maintaining park visibility and activation and
positioning GRPC as a leader in downtown revitalization and community health.
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