SETAC North America Executive Director

Background
The Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) is a global not-for-profit professional scientific society established in 1979. SETAC’s mission is to support the advancement and application of scientific research related to contaminants and other stressors in the environment, education in the environmental sciences, and the use of science in environmental policy and decision-making. SETAC is currently composed of an overarching governing body, the SETAC World Council (SWC), and five Geographic Units, one of which is SETAC North America (SNA). SNA is incorporated in the United States as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that operates under its constitution and by-laws. The SNA Board of Directors (BOD) serves as the governing body for SNA, and daily operations are overseen by the Executive Director (ED).  

Strategic Priorities
SNA’s vision is aligned with the broader strategic vision of the global organization, which exists to advance science, advocate for science-based decision-making, and ensure operational health. The SNA BOD is committed to advancing all strategic priorities, specifically:

(1) enhancing opportunities for diversity, equity, and inclusion;

(2) improving member services through innovative practices; and

(3) ensuring the long-term operational and fiscal health of the organization.

Position
The ED is the chief executive officer of SNA, appointed by and serving at the discretion of the SNA BOD. The ED guides and supports the SNA BOD with the authority specified in the by-laws and constitution. The ED serves as both an ambassador and principal administrator for the society. Together, the ED and the BOD are responsible for the operational health and strategic focus of the society. The primary remit of the ED is to implement and report on the projects and programs advancing the society’s mission and the goals set forth by the SNA BOD.

Administrative and Ambassadorial Role and Responsibilities
As an ambassador, the ED is responsible for establishing contacts with external organizations operating in similar and ancillary fields of research in order to further the mission of SETAC and to represent SNA both internally and externally.

As an administrator, the ED is required to work with the SNA BOD to implement SNA priorities and coordinate day-to-day operations with SNA staff. In consultation with the SNA BOD, the ED manages the business, functions, programs, budget, and activities of SNA in support of the long-range plan. The ED supports the SNA BOD to deliver on advancing science, primarily through meetings and workshops; establishing a development program; ensuring financial stability; and internal and external communications.

The ED candidate must have proven ability in both the administrative and ambassadorial roles.  They must understand the needs of a global organization with diverse membership and demonstrate the ability to deal with those needs with appropriate cultural sensitivity and understanding. It is essential that the candidate has previous nonprofit experience and demonstrated skills related to personnel management, resource management, and change management.