WREN is hiring an Executive Director
Questions and application materials may be submitted electronically to hiring@wrenworks.org.
Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.
Executive Director | Women's Rural Entrepreneurial Network (WREN)
Bethlehem, New Hampshire
About WREN
Founded in 1994, WREN is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization based in Bethlehem, New Hampshire. For more than 30 years, WREN has strengthened New Hampshire's North Country by supporting entrepreneurs, artists, makers, and community leaders while advancing rural economic development and creating lasting community impact.
A cornerstone of WREN's work is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and artists to succeed. The Store at WREN provides valuable market access for hundreds of regional artisans, makers, and small businesses, helping them reach new customers and grow sustainable enterprises. The Gallery at WREN, the only gallery in New Hampshire's North Country dedicated exclusively to New Hampshire artists, showcases exceptional visual art while fostering cultural appreciation and supporting the state's creative economy.
WREN's work also includes entrepreneur and small business support, educational workshops and professional development, arts and cultural programming, community events, and placemaking initiatives that strengthen downtowns, foster collaboration, and build resilient rural communities. Through these interconnected efforts, WREN serves thousands of residents and visitors each year while creating meaningful economic and social impact throughout the North Country.
Recognized for its innovative approach to rural and community economic development, WREN has earned a reputation for bringing people together to address community challenges, expand opportunity, and demonstrate how entrepreneurship, creativity, and collaboration can transform rural communities for generations to come.
Position Summary
As WREN enters its next chapter, the organization seeks an Executive Director who will build upon this strong foundation, strengthen partnerships, ensure long-term financial sustainability, and lead the organization in advancing its mission and expanding its impact across New Hampshire's North Country.
The Executive Director serves as WREN's chief executive officer and is responsible for advancing the organization's mission, strategic vision, financial sustainability, and community impact.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides visionary leadership while overseeing fundraising, finance, external partnerships, programs, operations and staff development. The Executive Director is WREN's primary ambassador throughout the North Country and beyond, cultivating relationships that expand opportunities for the organization and the communities it serves.
This position is ideal for an experienced, collaborative leader who believes in the power of entrepreneurship, the arts, and community partnerships to strengthen rural economies.
WREN is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We actively seek to create an inclusive environment where all voices are heard, valued, and respected.
WREN does not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We make hiring decisions based solely on individual qualifications, experience, and organizational needs.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Resource Development
Lead all fundraising efforts, including major gifts, annual giving, grants, sponsorships, and special campaigns.
Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, businesses, and government partners.
Expand revenue opportunities while maintaining mission alignment.
Serve as the organization's chief spokesperson with funders and investors.
Organizational Leadership
Recruit, develop, supervise, and inspire a high-performing staff of ~5-8 full/part-time employees.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace culture.
Support volunteer engagement and Board development.
Promote professional growth and organizational excellence.
Monitor organizational performance using measurable outcomes.
Financial & Operational Management
Oversee annual budget of ~$500k-$1m, which includes financial planning and organizational reporting.
Ensure sound fiscal stewardship and compliance with nonprofit best practices.
Monitor organizational performance using measurable outcomes.
Oversee retail store, gallery programming, educational initiatives, facilities, and administrative functions.
Strategic Leadership
Lead the finalization and implementation of WREN's strategic planning process.
Partner with the Board to establish long-term organizational priorities.
Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and regional collaboration.
Ensure programs remain aligned with WREN's mission and community needs.
Community Leadership
Represent WREN throughout New Hampshire and the broader region.
Build partnerships with municipalities, economic development organizations, educational institutions, nonprofits, and local businesses.
Serve as a visible advocate for rural entrepreneurship, artists, and the creative economy.
Strengthen WREN's reputation as a trusted regional leader.
Board Partnership
Maintain a productive partnership with the Board of Directors.
Provide timely financial and operational reporting.
Support Board committees and strategic decision-making.
Assist with Board recruitment and governance.
Preferred Qualifications
Five or more years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, community development organization, business, higher education, or related sector.
Demonstrated success in fundraising and grant development.
Experience managing organizational budgets and financial operations.
Strong relationship-building and public speaking skills.
Experience supervising and mentoring staff.
Ability to think strategically while managing day-to-day operations.
Passion for entrepreneurship, arts and culture, rural economic development, and community engagement.
Proficiency with Google Workspace.
Experience using cloud-based business applications such as QuickBooks Online, Squarespace, Bloomerang, and SimpleConsign, or the ability to quickly learn these platforms.
Personal Characteristics
The successful candidate will be:
● Collaborative and approachable
● Entrepreneurial and innovative
● An excellent communicator and storyteller
● Financially responsible and strategic
● Comfortable working with diverse stakeholders
● Passionate about strengthening rural communities
● Able to balance vision with execution
Compensation
Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
A cover letter describing their interest in the position and relevant qualifications
A current resume
Please submit application materials electronically to hiring@wrenworks.org
Application Review: Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.
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Please email hiring@wrenworks.org with questions.