Executive Director

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) puts knowledge to work in pursuit of economic vitality, ecological sustainability and social well-being. Rooted in every county of the state, CCE Associations bring local experience and research-based solutions together, helping New York state families and communities thrive in our rapidly changing world.

CCE of St. Lawrence County is a NYS subordinate governmental agency, under the oversight of Cornell University, with an annual operation budget of approximately $3.2 million, with approximately 60 staff and 275 volunteers. The Association operates an agricultural learning farm a few miles outside the Village of Canton and maintains its offices at that location. In addition to agricultural programming, the Association currently provides programs in the areas of 4-H youth development including clubs and after-school programs, food systems, nutrition, energy education and gardening. For a more comprehensive listing of Association programs, facilities and activities please go to https://stlawrence.cce.cornell.edu.

The Executive Director provides overall leadership for the Association, setting local program priorities in collaboration with the Board of Directors. This position also ensures operational compliance and risk management, fiscal oversight, and effective people management. The Executive Director successfully navigates competing priorities while also building and maintaining tactful, collaborative relationships with multiple audiences. This position can sometimes be “hands-on” with no task too big or too small to tackle, helping to ensure constituents value the expertise and vital work of CCE of St. Lawrence County.

POSITION DETAILS

This position is a full-time exempt position, 100% FTE. The annual salary for this position is $89,665.00 to $109,140.00 commensurate on experience. This position, based on eligibility, offers a comprehensive benefit package, to include: health and dental insurance, NYS retirement, vacation, sick and personal leave.

POSITION INFORMATION

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree plus a minimum of six (6) years of related experience, including four (4) years in a leadership capacity. A PhD may substitute for 1 year of experience.
• Meets regular travel requirements of the position, including travel within the county, region, and state as needed.
• Maintains an approved driver’s license that meets insurance eligibility standards.
• Ability to demonstrate engagement in the association by regularly providing in-person organizational leadership and oversight.
• A commitment to being a strong physical presence in the county to build community connections with constituencies, local organizations and community leaders.
• Ability to work flexible hours which includes evenings and/or weekends.
• Proficiency with windows-based software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Excel.
• Leadership – Inspires and motivates others to perform; inspires respect and trust; provides vision; displays passion and optimism; mobilizes others to fulfill the vision.
• Strategic Thinking - Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; understands organization's strengths & weaknesses; identifies external threats and opportunities; adapts strategy to changing conditions.
• Judgment - Displays willingness to make timely decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; ensures compliance standards are met; supports and explains reasoning for decisions; includes appropriate people in decision-making process.
• Public/Governmental Relations - Demonstrates the ability to build support for the Association’s mission by clearly articulating its objectives and impacts. Proven experience building strategic relationships and public trust.
• Knowledge or understanding of one or more key CCE issues including: food and agricultural systems, community and economic vitality, rural environmental and natural resources, 4-H youth development and strengthening families.
• Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; communicates changes effectively; builds commitment and overcomes resistance; prepares and supports those affected by change; monitors transition and evaluates results.
• Business Acumen - Understands business implications of decisions; aligns work with strategic goals; works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; conserves organizational resources. Embraces and develops competency in software and data management tools (financial systems, HR systems, etc.).
• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations and builds consensus.
• Managing People - Provides regular performance feedback; develops subordinates' skills and encourages growth, delegates work assignments; sets expectations and monitors designated activities; provides recognition for results.
• Work Environment – In addition to the Working Conditions; the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This position works in a typical office environment and occasionally may lift or transport Association material or equipment.

APPLY

All applicants must apply online by close of day on July 22, 2026 to be considered for this position All applicants must submit a complete application online, which includes: cover letter, resume and three (3) references. For a full position description or to apply CLICK HERE!

Last updated July 2, 2026