SearchWide Global Tapped by the Alaska Raptor Center to Find New Leader
April 29, 2024 – Executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global has been retained by the Alaska Raptor Center to lead in its search for a new executive director. Nicole Newman, the search firm’s vice president, is leading the assignment. The executive director is responsible for the overall strategic direction, leadership, and management of the Alaska Raptor Center’s multi-faceted programs and business operations. The position reports and is accountable to the board of directors. The executive director will be a collaborative and visionary leader who strengthens the ARC’s mission through outreach activities, development, and implementation of strategic plans, programs, and partnerships.
SearchWide Global notes that this leader will foster an environment that encourages team members to grow and develop within the organization. They will work with key team members and the board of directors to develop strategic goals and implement action plans to achieve those goals.
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, concentrating in business, tourism, marketing, organizational leadership, or related field. They will have five years of progressively more responsible management/leadership or a combination of both as well as experience administering a complex, multi-source budget and strategically maximizing resources. Those applying must also have demonstrated experience developing high-performing teams, achieving strategic goals, and working in collaboration with a board of directors.
Experience with leading resource development efforts to strengthen an organization’s funding base in partnership with the board is also preferred. Candidates must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience in public speaking/presenting. Demonstrated success in a leadership position overseeing the day-to-day operations of an organization while maintaining solid relationships with staff, supporters, the board of directors, donors, government agencies, and the community is also a plus.
Related: SearchWide Global Recruits Chief Diversity Officer for Destinations International
The Alaska Raptor Center was established in 1980 in the backyard of two concerned Sitkans, starting with one injured bald eagle. The effort grew, and volunteers treated eagles at their homes until 1983 when they moved to a small shed on the campus of Sheldon Jackson College. In 1991 the Center moved to its present location on 17 acres bordered by the Indian River. The mission of the Alaska Raptor Center is to promote and enhance wild populations of raptors and other avian species through rehabilitation, education, and research.
Serving Clients Nationally
SearchWide Global, based in St. Paul, MN, is a full-service executive recruitment firm primarily for companies in the travel, tourism, hospitality, convention, trade association, venue management, and experiential marketing industries. The firm specializes in C-level and director-level executive searches for companies ranging in size from Fortune 500 corporations to mid-sized public and private companies and associations.
SearchWide Global Recruits CEO for the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce
Following an extensive national search, SearchWide Global has assisted in the recruitment of Bobbi-Jo Meuleman as the new chief executive officer for the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce in Idaho. She will be replacing current president and CEO Bill Connors who announced his intent to retire earlier this year. Nicole Newman, the search firm’s vice president, led the assignment. “We are excited for Bobbi-Jo to be Bill’s successor as the CEO of the Boise Metro Chamber,” said Odette Bolano, chair of Boise Metro Chamber. “She has demonstrated her ability to work closely with the business community over the last four years as the deputy chief of staff for Gov. (Brad) Little and previously as the director of Idaho Department of Commerce.”
“The committee made a wonderful decision,” said Mr. Connors. “Bobbi-Jo’s experience in economic development and tourism efforts fits perfectly to oversee the chamber, the Boise Valley Economic Partnership, and Visit Boise. Her respect and influence in the advocacy arena will be a tremendous asset to the organization.”
Ms. Newman works in all sectors of the hospitality and travel industry. Her experience in group sales, catering, and event planning, according to clients, gives her a unique perspective on executive level recruitment.
Visit Bend Search
SearchWide Global was recently selected by Visit Bend to lead in its search for a new president and CEO. The firm is looking for a genuine, passionate, approachable, and experienced leader. The CEO is the top staff position for the organization and an important leadership position for the broader economic development efforts of the City of Bend. They will lead Visit Bend’s strategic planning process and be responsible for the execution of Visit Bend’s tourism marketing programs, sustainability programs, and grant programs. This individual is responsible for recruiting, training, managing, and evaluating Visit Bend’s staff. This role is also responsible for recruiting and overseeing Visit Bend’s contract vendors.
As a primary caretaker of Bend, OR’s brand, Visit Bend is dedicated to enhancing the city’s economy by attracting visitors and encouraging them to connect with Bend’s rich culture and diverse local businesses. Visit Bend’s strategic, creative, and thoughtful initiatives promote the area with a focus on community, sustainability, and respect for Bend’s natural resources and way of life.
Related: SearchWide Global Recruits Chief Diversity Officer for the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor; Lily Fauver, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
