Executive Director

Community Land Trust of Western North Carolina (CLTWNC)

Location: Western North Carolina

Compensation: $105,000–$130,000 annually, commensurate with experience, plus generous benefit package

Application Deadline: Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged, but we will continue to consider qualified candidates until the position is filled.

Start Date for Position: August 2025 or earlier if possible.

About CLTWNC

The Community Land Trust of Western North Carolina (CLTWNC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring permanent housing affordability and community stewardship of land across the region. Established in response to the need for affordable workforce housing in Western North Carolina, CLTWNC partners with residents, governments, and other nonprofit organizations to create inclusive, sustainable neighborhoods rooted in local control. Our mission is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves stable, affordable housing and a voice in the future of their community.

Position Summary

CLTWNC seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth. As a newly established community land trust, CLTWNC requires a committed leader who can build strong relationships, manage a broad range of organizational activities, and strategically advance our mission.

The Executive Director (ED) is responsible for overall leadership and management of the organization, including fundraising, program development, housing stewardship, community engagement, and financial oversight. The ED will report to the Board of Directors and serve as the public face of CLTWNC.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Management

•  Provide strategic direction and day-to-day leadership in alignment with the mission and values of CLTWNC.
•  Collaborate with the Board of Directors and volunteers to develop and implement organizational goals and policies.
• Oversee staffing and operations, including hiring, supervising, and supporting a small but growing team.
• Establish systems and infrastructure for organizational development, HR, and fiscal management.

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Develop and lead initiatives to build a diverse and representative membership base.
• Facilitate meaningful resident engagement and support community-led decision-making processes.
• Strengthen partnerships with local government, nonprofits, and resident leaders to expand permanently affordable housing.

Fundraising & Financial Oversight

• Lead fundraising strategies in partnership with staff and Board to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including government and private grants, and individual donors.
• Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, compliance, and coordination with external accountants and/or auditors.

Housing Stewardship & Development

• Manage the stewardship of CLT properties and oversee support to homeowners, including technical assistance and education.
• Oversee property acquisitions and development in collaboration with consultants, developers, and non-profit partners.
• Ensure long-term affordability, legal compliance, and community benefit of all CLTWNC properties.

Advocacy & Public Education

• Represent CLTWNC in regional housing coalitions, policy discussions, and public forums.
• Promote the community land trust model to local stakeholders, including government officials, lenders, developers, and community members.
•  Lead public education campaigns, speaking engagements, and outreach via social media, newsletters, and events.

Qualifications

Required:

• Experience in at least one of the following: affordable housing development, nonprofit leadership, or real estate asset management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, supervise, and manage organizational operations or teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently in a start-up environment and manage multiple priorities.

Preferred:

• Experience with the community land trust model or other shared-equity housing strategies.
• Familiarity with the Western North Carolina region and its communities.
• Grant writing and fundraising experience.
• Project management experience in housing or community development.
• Knowledge of local and state housing policy.
• At least 3-years’ experience in residential development.

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter & resume to:

Burlington Associates
c/o Heather Benham [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through July 15th. Early applications are encouraged. We aim to fill this position promptly.

CLTWNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve.