JOB SUMMARY
The District Manager provides strategic and operational leadership for the Winona County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), a local unit of government led by an elected, nonpartisan Board of Supervisors. The SWCD works in partnership with landowners and agencies to protect and enhance natural resources for current and future generations.
The District Manager operates under the direction of the Board of Supervisors, which retains final authority on organizational priorities, policies, and decisions. In partnership with the Board, the District Manager sets organizational direction and ensures alignment with local, state, federal, and watershed-level conservation priorities. This role leads staff, budget, and programs to ensure effective operations, fiscal accountability, and measurable conservation outcomes. The District Manager supports program delivery by advancing on-the-ground conservation efforts through technical, educational, and financial assistance.
Success in this role is demonstrated by a team that is clear on expectations, supported in their work, and accountable for outcomes, along with strong, productive partnerships, effective financial management and program compliance, and alignment with Board direction.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Management
· Set direction, priorities, and work plans for the SWCD in alignment with Board goals and conservation priorities.
· Lead and supervise staff, establishing clear expectations, providing ongoing feedback, and holding staff accountable for performance.
· Build and sustain a high-performing, collaborative team culture grounded in accountability and support.
· Strengthen systems and day-to-day operations to improve efficiency, consistency, and overall organizational effectiveness.
Financial & Administrative
· Develop and manage the SWCD’s budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.
· Oversee financial operations, including records, payroll, and reporting.
· Secure and manage grants and funding opportunities to support SWCD priorities and expand program impact.
· Ensure compliance with all reporting requirements and audits.
Programs & Partnerships
· Oversee conservation programs and project implementation to ensure quality, compliance, and measurable outcomes.
· Build and sustain strong, productive partnerships that advance conservation goals and program delivery.
· Support and advance watershed and natural resource initiatives.
· Represent the SWCD in meetings, committees, and public settings with professionalism and credibility.
Board Support
· Implement Board direction on priorities, policies, and decisions, ensuring alignment across SWCD operations.
· Prepare meeting agendas, materials, and recommendations to support informed decision-making and effective governance.
· Provide regular updates and reports on SWCD operations, programs, and finances to support Board oversight.
· Ensure compliance with open meeting law and governance requirements.
REQUIREMENTS
· Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead with clarity and build trust.
· Ability to build and sustain productive relationships with landowners and partners.
· Working knowledge of natural resource management principles and conservation programs.
· Ability to secure, manage, and align funding and grant resources with organizational priorities.
· Ability to lead, support, and develop staff within a collaborative, accountable team environment.
· Working knowledge of conservation practice design, implementation, and certification standards, with the ability to oversee technical work and support staff in maintaining appropriate NRCS Job Approval Authority (JAA).
· Ability to prioritize, delegate, and manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic, small-team setting.
· Ability to work independently while staying aligned with Board direction and priorities, and maintaining accountability to the Board.
Pay: $89,101.00 - $121,988.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
