Ocean Career: BWEEMS Executive Director

The Executive Director (ED) of Black Women in Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Science (BWEEMS) is the chief executive leader, responsible for guiding the organization’s strategic direction, overseeing program implementation, sustaining partnerships, and supporting our dynamic network of Black women scientists around the world. This role provides visionary leadership, ensures operational excellence, and serves as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, staff, and key stakeholders.

The ED will manage a growing team; foster collaborative relationships across academia, government, nonprofits, and industry; and serve as an advocate for Black women across the sciences. This is a unique opportunity to lead an impactful and community-driven nonprofit into its next phase of growth and global engagement.

About BWEEMS

Black Women in Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Science (BWEEMS) is a vibrant global community of over 700 Black women scientists working across disciplines, regions, and languages. Founded with the goal of amplifying Black women’s voices, experiences, and leadership across ecological and marine sciences, BWEEMS creates intentional spaces that foster connection, mentorship, research collaboration, and career development.

Our members represent diverse geographies, academic backgrounds, and lived experiences—and our network continues to grow. We believe in centering joy, cultural identity, and collective action in pursuit of equity and inclusion in science.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the execution and refinement of BWEEMS’ strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors (BoD)
  • Oversee daily operations including program development, team management, and compliance
  • Cultivate and maintain donor and partner relationships to diversify revenue streams
  • Represent BWEEMS at conferences, in the media, and in policy/advocacy spaces
  • Manage finances, reporting, budgeting, and performance metrics in alignment with nonprofit best practices
  • Ensure strong internal systems and organizational policies that foster inclusive, mission-aligned growth
  • Hire, mentor, and develop a high-performing remote team
  • Maintain transparent and consistent communication with the Board and BWEEMS community

Minimum Qualifications

  • 5+ years of leadership experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations, preferably at a director or executive level
  • Demonstrated experience in fundraising, program development, and stakeholder engagement
  • Proven ability to manage a team in a fully remote, collaborative environment
  • Strong budget management, strategic planning, and decision-making skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Deep commitment to racial equity, community building, and BWEEMS’ mission

Preferred (but not required) Qualifications

  • Experience working with or leading organizations centering Black women or BIPOC communities
  • Scientific background in ecology, evolution, marine science, or related disciplines
  • Multilingual abilities or cross-cultural communication skills
  • Experience working with a Board of Directors or nonprofit governance frameworks
  • Familiarity with the nonprofit funding landscape (private foundations, government grants, etc.)


Salary range: $80,000 – $95,000 USD annually

Application deadline: August 15, 2025. (Priority Deadline: August 1, 2025. Interested parties who submit completed applications by this deadline will be given preference for application reviews.)

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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