Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center (Wolf Ridge) is a private, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides outdoor, hands-on learning for school groups, children, families, and adult learners from throughout the upper Midwest.
The Executive Director (ED) is responsible for Wolf Ridge's overall leadership and management, working closely with the board, staff, partners, schools, and communities.
The ED is the face, voice, and heart of the organization and is a trusted and visionary leader and ambassador in local, regional, and national communities. The ED energizes staff, board, and school partners to drive strategic success, grow financial resources, deepen organizational culture, and embody Wolf Ridge’s commitment to experiential education and personal development.
The ideal candidate will have outstanding interpersonal and relational skills and excel at developing, leveraging, and advancing education and stewardship work with integrity, accountability, and humanity. The position works with a wide variety of people, including Wolf Ridge staff, board members, school leaders, donors, and partners. Additionally, the ideal candidate will be creative and entrepreneurial in achieving Wolf Ridge’s mission and sustainability, and maintaining the organization as a national leader in the field.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The ED’s anticipated annual salary range is $125,000–$140,000, commensurate with knowledge, abilities, and experience.
The Wolf Ridge benefits package includes:
- Health coverage; employer-paid percentage based on plan
- 403b retirement plan with up to 7% employer match
- Four weeks annually accrued paid time off, plus holidays, personal days, and development time
- Life and long-term disability insurance coverage
- Access to an HSA account, with employer contributions, and dental plan
- Meals in the Wolf Ridge Dining Hall when working on site
Location
The ED works from the Wolf Ridge campus in Finland, Minnesota. There are many communities within commuting distance of the Wolf Ridge Campus. This position requires the ability to be on site regularly and respond to urgent needs when they occur.
This position also requires frequent travel throughout the upper Midwest and nationally. Occasional night and weekend work is expected in coordination with site, program, and operational needs.
Start Date
Late April 2026
To Apply
This search will open for applications August 1, 2025. If interested and to learn more, please contact Andrew Leider at aleider@potrerogroup.com.
The position is open until filled. Interviews will be conducted in late summer and early fall, and a hiring decision is expected by December 2025.
Additional Information
More information about Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center can be found at wolf-ridge.org or hike over to Wolf Ridge on Instagram: instagram.com/wolfridgeelc
For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact:
Andrew Leider
Managing Director & Search Lead, Potrero Group
aleider@potrerogroup.com
