Volunteer Opportunity: Vice-President, Community Relations
The Vice President of Community Relations (VP-CR) leads the Community Relations Committee in managing relationships between the East Coast Trail Assciation (ECTA) and stakeholders to ensure long-term sustainability of the East Coast Trail (ECT). This volunteer leadership position reports to the President and serves on both the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Community Relations Committee in developing and executing strategic initiatives for trail sustainability
- Acquire and maintain trail access rights on private lands
- Secure trail protection through municipal and regional planning processes
- Oversee relationships with landowners, town councils, and key stakeholders
- Manage five functional teams covering MOUs, town planning, problem resolution, land investigation, and community ambassadors
- Develop and monitor annual work plans and budgets
- Ensure compliance with organizational policies and safety standards
- Provide leadership in problem resolution and stakeholder negotiations
Required Qualifications
- Proven leadership and relationship management experience
- Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities
- Excellence in stakeholder engagement and negotiation
- Understanding of municipal planning processes and land management
- Experience managing volunteer teams
- Strong organizational and project management skills
Term & Commitment
- Two-year term, renewable without restrictions
- Monthly committee meetings and regular stakeholder engagement
- Board and Executive Committee meeting participation
- Flexible schedule with regular time commitment
Authority
- Discretion to make routine administrative decisions within charter scope
- Authority to delegate powers to staff and volunteer team
- Financial and legal commitments subject to Board-approved signing policies
- Responsibility for strategic direction of community relations initiatives
Key Relationships
- Reports to: ECTA President
- Direct Reports: Five Team Leads
- Key Stakeholders: Municipal governments, landowners, parks authorities, community
representatives
Success Metrics
- Implementation of five-year sustainability plan (2023-2028)
- Completion of MOU agreements with stakeholders
- Resolution of trail access issues
- Development of effective Community Ambassador program
- Maintenance of positive community relationships
How to Apply
Please email the ECT’s VP of Volunteers and Membership, Melissa, at melissa.berkshire@eastcoasttrail.com, with subject ‘Application: VP-CR’, attach your resume as a PDF, and include a little blurb about why you would be a great fit for the role!
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.