Classified Ad Title:
NM First is looking for a new Executive Director & Administrative Assistant

Post Date
6/4/2021

Expiration Date
9/2/2021

Details:
New Mexico First President/Executive Director
The Board of Directors of New Mexico First seeks a proven executive to lead this nonprofit, nonpartisan
public policy organization as President/Executive Director. Founded in 1986 and headquartered in
Albuquerque, the organization engages the people of New Mexico in deliberations that result in
consensus recommendations on the issues that affect them the most—education, the economy,
healthcare, natural resources and good government. New Mexico First’s unique civic engagement
events are supported by comprehensive and nonpartisan policy reports and are followed up by
advocacy that actively advances policy change. With an active board that reflects the diversity of the
state and a dedicated staff, the new executive will build on NMF’s firm foundation to deepen its impact.
Organization Overview
The mission of New Mexico First is to be a catalyst for positive change by conducting independent
research, engaging New Mexicans in policy, and enabling action. The organization seeks to be a model of
“democracy at its best” by rising above partisanship through inclusion and transparency, meaningfully
engaging diverse points of view while promoting civility, and creating consensus that is powerfully
motivated to create change. What sets New Mexico First apart from other public policy organizations is
truly nonpartisan research, authentic civic engagement in policy decisions, and advocacy on behalf of
the public, not our staff or board. The organization has a budget of $650k and employs a staff of five.
This position reports directly to the Board of Directors. Additional information about New Mexico First
can be found at http://nmfirst.org/
Position Requirements
New Mexico First’s next leader will be a compelling advocate of the organization and its mission, a
seasoned manager of people and complex projects, and have a strong dedication to building effective
and enduring partnerships. We expect the successful candidate will bring the following experience,
talent and leadership qualities to the role of President and Executive Director.
Specific areas of responsibility include:
1. Civic engagement marketing, planning, management, implementation and follow-up
2. Public policy research, publishing and advocacy
3. Revenue generation
4. Management and administration
5. Statewide representation
Specific talents include:
• The vision and strategic skills to sustain the effectiveness of the organization in addressing its
mission and accomplishing its goals
• The business and marketing acumen that ensures the financial health of the organization and the
integrity of its work
• The teambuilding and networking abilities to attract a dedicated board and staff, build long-lasting
partnerships and donors, and navigate the opportunities and pitfalls for policy change in alignment
with the results of our civic engagement events and projects
• Broad-based knowledge and skills in research, civic deliberation methods and processes, and
advocacy
Leadership characteristics include:
• Unwavering commitment to nonpartisan policymaking
• Strong ethical approach to decision-making aligned with the organization’s mission and goals
• Mature judgment that demonstrates fair and consistent treatment of all stakeholders
• Ability to establish appropriate boundaries which protect the organization’s reputation, staff’s safety
and project’s integrity
• Positive interpersonal skills that demonstrate the ability to support a team environment integrating
the talents of board, staff, volunteers, contract clients, policymakers and community stakeholders
• Strong diplomacy skills that demonstrates the ability to build ongoing, multi-stakeholder coalitions,
as well as, professional, nonpartisan relationships with policymakers for long-term policy change
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s Degree required. Graduate degree preferred (preferably in Public Policy, Public
Administration, Public Relations and Communications or Business)
• Five years of senior management level experience required. Seven years of experience preferred
(preferably in non-profit, public policy or government sector)
• Strong foundation in robust financial budgeting and fiscal control practices that supports a nonprofit
budget over $500k.
Compensation
The salary for this position is consistent with that of small nonprofit organizations, low $100s and
commensurate with relevant experience and expertise. New Mexico First offers a competitive benefits
package including medical and dental insurance, a 401k plan, as well as paid vacation and sick leave. This
is a full-time, exempt position.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter explaining the fit you see between your experience,
talents and leadership and the opportunity at New Mexico First, along with your resume directly to
Charlotte Pollard at charlottep@nmfirst.org Please be prepared to provide contact information for
professional references upon request. Deadline for applications is June 30, 2021. Interviews will be held
the week of July 12, 2021

Contact:
Wendy Wintermute

Work Phone:
505.238.9579

Email:
Wendy@ShareNM.org

Website:
https://nmfirst.org/