Job Type: Part-time, remote
Location: International Association of Wildland Fire - Remote/US
Pay: The starting contract rate for this role is $60,000 - $70,000, negotiable based on qualifications and professional experience.
Application Deadline: October 30, 2026
Description:
Position Title: Executive Director
Reports to: IAWF Board President/Chair
Status: Approximately 20 hours/week - flexible
IAWF seeks an experienced, strategic, and relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the day-to-day functioning of the Association. The Executive Director plays a central role in governance, operations, communications, partnerships, and global positioning. This role may be filled by an individual or through a contract with an association management company.
IAWF Overview:
The International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF) is a non-profit corporation built on the belief that an understanding of fire is vital for natural and cultural resource management, for firefighter safety and community preparedness and protection, and for harmonious interaction between people and their environment.
The IAWF has been formed to:
create networks across sectors, fields and disciplines to connect the global wildland fire community and to facilitate sharing of latest knowledge and lessons learnt;
create a sense of belonging and inclusiveness among our diverse and geographically dispersed wildland fire community through membership and multiple platforms;
provide regional and international leadership and impact through partnerships that leverage the considerable expertise throughout IAWF’s networks and membership.
The IAWF Strategic Plan 2026-2030 is founded on four strategic priorities:
Global Positioning and Influence
Member Value, Attraction and Retention
Financial Health and Sustainability
Good Governance including ESG Factors
Role Statement:
Responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the IAWF within the framework provided by the Board of Directors. Reports to the IAWF President/Board Chair.
Performs duties listed in the Bylaws for the Secretary, and supports the Board and Committees with strategic planning, agendas, reports, minutes and governance requirements.
Ensures compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Maintains Bylaws, policies, position papers and records as well as corporate knowledge and IAWF history.
Ensures that IAWF resources are appropriately managed, maintains the accounting system, and provides monthly financial reports.
Develops an awareness of global wildland fire issues, considers opportunities for IAWF positioning, and maintains awareness of risk at strategic and operational levels.
Promotes membership, maintains systems for member communication, responds to member inquiries, and administers member benefits including awards, scholarships and mentoring programs.
Develops and strengthens relationships with global partners and manages associated agreements.
Coordinates and manages all IAWF publications including the website, journal (IJWF), magazine (Wildfire), online platform (Wildfire Today), social media and newsletters.
Oversees scheduling, partnering, planning and budgeting for conferences, symposia and workshops, including the engagement of professional event organizers, the functioning of committees, and the safe and effective running of events.
Manages human resources, including staff and contractors as required.
Travels to represent the IAWF at domestic and international events.
Contract Conditions
This position may be filled by an individual Executive Director or through a contract with an association management company.
This is a remote position, however, must be located within the United States. The IAWF does not have a brick-and-mortar headquarters.
Position is approximately 20 hours/week, working hours are flexible, subject to service delivery requirements.
Remuneration and contract to be negotiated. Starting contract amount will be between $60,000 - $70,000 depending on experience.
Subject to a probation period and an annual performance review.
Selection Criteria
Proven ability to build strong relationships with leaders in government agencies, corporations and non-government organizations, as well as with professionals from diverse disciplines and backgrounds.
Experience in board and committee governance in non-profit or corporate sectors.
Experience in leading, managing and administering the effective functioning of an organization including strategy, risk, finance, governance, policies, human resources, operations and continuous improvement.
Experience in managing and coordinating multi-faceted communications platforms for strategic outcomes.
Experience in developing and pitching proposals for partnerships, sponsorships and grants as well as managing agreements, reporting and relationships.
Experience in planning, promoting, managing, conducting and evaluating major events including the ability to engage and oversee specialists and contactors.
Competence with a wide range of office technologies and business systems with the ability to learn and adapt.
A commitment to diversity, equity and inclusivity and a proven ability to lead by example.
An understanding of current global wildfire management issues, challenges and stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
Holds a bachelor’s degree.
Brings a minimum of ten years of professional experience.
Has direct experience collaborating with or supporting a governing board.
Demonstrates strong communication abilities, including writing, speaking, presenting, facilitating, and interpersonal engagement.
Possesses solid financial and organizational management skills, with the capacity to balance multiple priorities and deadlines.
Has led a membership-based association, nonprofit, public agency, or a similar organization.
