One Arroyo Foundation Seeks Executive Director to Lead Preservation Efforts

One Arroyo Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring the Arroyo Seco in Pasadena, is searching for a new Executive Director to lead its efforts.

The foundation announced on Wednesday that it is seeking a “visionary leader” to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing one of California’s significant natural and recreational urban spaces. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors and staff to plan, organize, and direct the foundation’s work.

The position offers an opportunity to build on One Arroyo’s existing successes and expand its reach through education, fundraising, and outdoor activities in the Arroyo Seco.

Key responsibilities include leading staff and consultants while keeping the Board updated on progress towards goals, the foundation said in its announcement.

One Arroyo seeks a dynamic leader to build on current momentum, drive engagement, and expand the Foundation’s impact. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with leadership and management experience, eager to implement the Arroyo Seco Master Plans and collaborate with the City of Pasadena, the posting said. 

Essential skills for the role include major donor fundraising, grant writing, and leading capital campaigns, according to the job description. 

Candidates should have experience working with high-level Boards and managing nonprofit or government entities. Experience in developing educational programs is highly desirable.

The foundation is looking for candidates with at least five years of relevant experience, including work with community representatives, government officials, and staff.

The Executive Director must oversee community relations, develop positive relationships with Pasadena leadership, and meet fundraising goals, the announcement stated.

The position requires a flexible 35-hour workweek, including some evenings and weekends, with a salary range of $110,000 to $130,000.

One Arroyo Foundation was created to supplement available public funding for enhancement projects in the Arroyo Seco. The foundation’s initial goal is to create a unified One Arroyo Trail connecting the three areas of the Arroyo Seco: Hahamonga, Central Arroyo, and the Lower Arroyo.

One Arroyo’s primary focus is raising money and working with the city on demonstration projects at key connection points within the Arroyo, such as Hahamonga’s Woodland Loop and the Colorado Street Bridge streamside walk.

The organization has set an initial fundraising goal of $7 million for the completion and maintenance of these demonstration projects.

Interested candidates to the Executive Director position are asked to submit a cover letter describing their experience and how it meets the skills needed for the position, along with a current resume, via email to Cynthia Kurtz at cynthia@onearroyo.org by Sept. 6.

For more information about the One Arroyo Foundation and its mission, visit www.onearroyo.org.