The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes has opened the search for its first executive director. This new executive director, the first since the organization was formed in 1994,  will be responsible for leading the Friends in its mission of protecting resources and heightening visitor experiences in partnership with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 

The new executive director will be tasked with fostering community relationships, overseeing fundraising efforts, leading operations, supporting programs and projects, and enthusiastically promoting the mission of the Friends amongst other duties. The executive director will report directly to the Board of Directors and work closely with board members, volunteers, donors, the National Park Service and community stakeholders to achieve the Friends’ goals.

“For 30 years, our organization has provided crucial support to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore through the dedication and commitment of our all-volunteer team, however now is the time to add a full time executive director to advance the organization.” said Kerry Kelly, Chair of the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes Board of Directors. “This is a pivotal moment for the organization. We are seeking a candidate who embodies our mission and can lead the Friends to new heights in supporting the Park we all cherish.”

The new executive director will join an organization currently operated by more than 500 volunteers, including an all-volunteer Board of Directors. In 2023 alone, the Friends dedicated more than 11,000 volunteer hours and $262k in funds to support Park programs and projects, maintain trails, provide accessibility options for all and connect with visitors to provide preventative safety information. 

After an extensive review, the Friends selected The Moran Company of Leawood, Kan., to conduct the national search for this opportunity. To see the full position description and to apply, click here. Resumes and supporting documentation will be reviewed as they are received as the Friends seeks to fill this role as soon as possible. The application deadline for this opportunity is August 23, 2024.