About Community Boating, Inc.

Established in 1946, Community Boating, Inc. (CBI) is the nation’s oldest public sailing organization with a mission to build a diverse community, promote personal growth, and inspire appreciation of the natural environment through sailing. The motto “Sailing For All” encapsulates our mission” Operating under license from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, CBI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. CBI serves individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, providing affordable and accessible sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing programs to the Greater Boston community. CBI delivers programming through its Junior Program, Adult Program and Universal Access Program.

CBI is located on Boston’s Charles River Esplanade between the Hatch Shell and the Longfellow Bridge. The organization operates from a two-story boathouse and attached pier, including classrooms, multipurpose space, offices, and equipment storage areas. Shoreline operations accommodate approximately 200 vessels including sailboats, safety launches, kayaks, windsurfers, and paddle boards. Programming runs 7 months, April 1 – October 31, with an organizational budget of $2.5 million. CBI serves over 12,000 adults, youth, and families annually.

Position Summary

CBI seeks an experienced dynamic leader who can build upon its legacy and advance the organization at a time of tremendous opportunity. The Executive Director will have the unique opportunity to lead one of the nation’s most historic sailing nonprofits into its next chapter of growth and innovation. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is a key leader in advancing CBI’s mission and ensuring the organization’s sustainability and impact.

This role involves strategic planning, program oversight, financial stewardship, fundraising, and team leadership while fostering partnerships and community engagement. Primary job duties and responsibilities include:

Organizational Leadership & Mission Alignment: Drive alignment between the organization’s mission and its programs, strategic goals, and community outreach efforts. Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop, refine, and execute CBI’s strategic plan. Act as the primary spokesperson and advocate for CBI, cultivating relationships with community stakeholders, donors, and local organizations. Build and maintain a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, innovation, and excellence throughout the organization.

Program Management & Operations: Ensure the effective delivery of high-quality sailing and water sports programs in alignment with CBI’s mission and values. Oversee the safety, accessibility, and inclusivity of all programs, with particular attention to youth and individuals with disabilities. Evaluate program performance, implementing enhancements to meet evolving needs. Manage the maintenance of facilities and fleet to industry standards. Ensure compliance with organizational bylaws and best practices in operational management.

Fundraising & Development: Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies to ensure the financial health and growth of the organization. Lead donor cultivation, grant writing, sponsorship initiatives, and special events. Strengthen relationships with existing donors while identifying and engaging new funding opportunities. Partner with the Board of Directors to create and implement a sustainable and diversified development strategy.

Financial Stewardship & Risk Management: Maintain the financial health, transparency, and compliance of the organization. Prepare and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board of Directors, ensuring fiscal accountability. Regularly assess and update operational fees to maintain revenue alignment. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and internal policies while proactively managing organizational risk. Collaborate with the Board on legal documents, official correspondence, and key financial decisions.

Team Management: Foster a cohesive and effective team to achieve organizational goals. Recruit, retain, and mentor a talented and mission-driven team of staff and volunteers. Create a supportive work environment emphasizing collaboration, professional development, and innovation. Implement and uphold HR policies and practices that promote inclusivity and equity.