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Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) puts knowledge to work in pursuit of economic vitality, ecological sustainability, and social well-being. Rooted in every county of the state, CCE Associations bring local experience and research-based solutions together, helping New York State families and communities thrive in our rapidly changing world.

CCE of Seneca County is a NYS subordinate governmental agency, under the oversight of Cornell University, with an annual operating budget of approximately $880,000, including staff and approximately 50 dedicated, trained volunteers who assist with public outreach and education efforts.

Since 1917, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Seneca County has responded to the needs of local residents with unbiased, research-based information, tools and education that people have come to depend on and trust. Our programs are developed in direct response to community input and are based on the most current information available from Cornell and other Land Grant universities from across the nation. The mission of Cooperative Extension is to enable people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work. Extension staff and trained volunteers deliver educational programs, conduct applied research, and encourage community collaborations. Our educators connect people with the information they need on topics such as commercial and consumer agriculture; nutrition and health; youth and families; home horticulture; energy efficiency; economic and community development; and sustainable natural resources. Our ability to match university resources with community needs help us play a vital role in the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout Seneca County.

The Executive Director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Seneca County represents and is accountable to the Association Board of Directors and the Director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension System. The Executive Director is expected to be an effective leader, helping to develop and project a compelling and contemporary vision for extension programming to stakeholders, both internal and external. The Executive Director must be engaged with decision makers both locally and at Cornell in order to be effective. The Executive Director is expected to provide high level administrative leadership and management of the Association as well as high-level program development and delivery for the various programming areas within Cornell and local policy direction. The Executive Director develops and maintains effective working relationships among the staff, other Extension Associations, Extension Administration, Cornell faculty, and stakeholders. This position will build positive relationships with legislators, local government leaders, community leaders, funding agencies, and civic groups. The Executive Director exercises professional judgment and executive skills in administering overall Association operations. This position provides leadership in overall educational program development and implementation, establishes program priorities, and provides leadership for the ongoing development of a welcoming and inclusive organizational climate for diversity, and program integration across disciplines and within the broader Extension System. The Executive Director is expected to develop enhanced revenue streams to sustain and grow Association programming. This position can sometimes be “hands-on” with no task too big or too small to tackle, helping to ensure constituents value the expertise and vital work of CCE of Seneca County.

Application Instructions

In the My Information section be sure to enter your full name, address, email, and phone number(s).

Include a cover letter, resume and at least three references (at least one who is a current or former supervisor or teacher). To attach documents, under the My Experience section use the Select Files button to search for files or use the Drop Files Here box to drag documents into your application. If you plan to upload more than one document, click the Upload icon for each additional document. Please note, once your application is submitted you will not be able to change your submission or add attachments. If you would like to add or update documents to your online application after submission, please contact Kelsey James, Association Lead Human Resources Manager, via e-mail [email protected].

External Applicants: (including current employees of other Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations) please refer to Applying for a Job with Cornell Cooperative Extension (External Candidate) (https://cals.cornell.edu/cornell-cooperative-extension/join-us/jobs/apply) for additional guidance.

All Internal Applicants: Those who are currently employed by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association indicated in this job posting must apply online via their employee Workday account, which may be accessed here: http://workday.cornell.edu/

Apply By

All applications must be received on-line by 11:59 pm on 1/5/2026. Position closing dates may change based on Association needs.

Required Qualifications

+ Master’s Degree plus a minimum of six (6) years of related experience, including four (4) years in a leadership capacity. A PhD may substitute for 1 year of experience.

+ Ability to meet the regular or to frequent travel requirements associated with this position; a valid NYS driver's license with the ability to drive and driving record acceptable for Association insurance coverage are required.

+ Ability to meet acceptable background check standards.

+ Ability to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.

+ Ability to clearly communicate (speak, read, and write proficiently) in English.

+ Demonstrated leadership and management skills, including strategic planning, goal setting, budgeting, personnel development, and effective use of technology.

+ Strong knowledge of non-formal education systems such as Cooperative Extension, with experience in program development, fund and grant management, and community engagement.

+ Proven ability to build relationships with staff, volunteers, community leaders, and diverse audiences while addressing local issues and promoting inclusion.

+ Effective communicator across multiple platforms with the ability to respond confidently and courteously to challenges and opportunities.

+ Demonstrates strong, consistent in-person leadership and engagement in the community by maintaining a visible presence, providing organizational oversight, and building connections with local groups and leaders.

+ Knowledge – Knowledge or understanding of one or more key CCE issues including: agriculture and food systems; community and economic vitality; environment & natural resources; sustainable energy and climate change; nutrition, food safety and security and obesity prevention; 4-H youth development and strengthening families.

+ Leadership – Inspires and motivates others to perform; inspires respect and trust; provides vision; displays passion and optimism; mobilizes others to fulfill the vision.

+ Strategic Thinking - Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; understands organization's strengths & weaknesses; identifies external threats and opportunities; adapts strategy to changing conditions.

+ Judgment - Displays willingness to make timely decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; ensures compliance standards are met; supports and explains reasoning for decisions; includes appropriate people in decision-making process.

+ Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; communicates changes effectively; builds commitment and overcomes resistance; prepares and supports those affected by change; monitors transition and evaluates results.

+ Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations and builds consensus.

+ Managing People - Provides regular performance feedback; develops subordinates' skills and encourages growth, delegates work assignments; sets expectations and monitors designated activities; provides recognition for results.

Preferred Qualifications

+ Educational background in Management, Agriculture, Horticulture, Natural Resources, Education, Youth Development, Nutrition or related Cooperative Extension programming area.

+ Prior experience & high comfort level partnering with and stewarding Boards of Directors.

+ Experience within CCE, public (governmental), or nonprofit leadership.

+ Demonstrated knowledge of fund development, grants, and revenue enhancement.

+ Previous knowledge/background of working in and supporting rural communities.

+ Substantial coursework and/or experience in education.

+ Substantial training or experience with applied research, non-formal education and/or public outreach

+ Knowledge and experience in agriculture, nutrition, healthy living and youth educational programming.

+ Willing to become a visible community member/leader of Seneca County.

Position Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Program Responsibilities:

Program Development – 10 %

+ Provide overall program leadership in the application of subject matter knowledge to develop educational strategies in the identified programming area.

+ Provide guidance and oversight in the creation of high-quality educational program materials to address the needs of the program and program participants in the identified programming area using proven educational methodologies as well as innovative techniques to reach diverse target populations within the community and region.

+ Develop relationships with partner agencies, organizations, industries, and community leaders in order to obtain their assistance in program development.

+ Based on program evaluation data, formulate, and implement specific strategies to improve overall program quality, deliverables and impact and meet the need of diverse program participants.

+ Research, identify and select existing resources for use in identified programming offerings.

+ Ensure that program development and program structure are within both the Association and the state-wide Plan of Work and that they meet the diverse needs of program participants.

+ Maintain direct connection with Cornell University faculty and other Land Grant Universities as appropriate, for guidance in program development.

Program Delivery – 5 %

+ Provide overall program leadership in the delivery of innovative and multi-disciplinary program efforts utilizing a variety of teaching methods, including formal and informal workshops, seminars, social and mass media consistent with identified educational needs.

+ Consult and utilize target audiences/stakeholders, collaborators, organizations, agencies, government, and other key partners in program delivery efforts.

+ Provide overall program leadership to foster acceptance of programs, methods and policies to address community and individual needs and consider diverse audiences.

+ Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty, program units and other Land Grant Universities as appropriate for program delivery guidance.

+ Provide overall program leadership to ensure program delivery is within the scope of the statewide and Association Plan of Work.

Program Evaluation – 5%

+ Oversee the application of subject matter knowledge to evaluate educational program.

+ Oversee the design and creation of program evaluation framework. May implement program evaluation.

+ May analyze collected program evaluation and make recommendations for improvements.

+ May be involved in multidisciplinary team efforts to design or analyze program evaluation.

+ May be the direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and program units for program evaluation guidance.

+ May have direct linkage with other Land Grant University faculty and program units for program evaluation guidance.

+ Interpret evaluation data to the constituencies. Communicate evaluation results and findings.

+ Interact with various constituencies to obtain their evaluation of programs.

+ Ensure program evaluation is within scope of the statewide Plan of Work.

Administrative Responsibilities:

Direction – 45 %

+ Working with the Board of Directors, encourage and ensure engagement with the CCE mission, vision, and values; guide the development of the Association’s Plan of Work, strategic plans, goals, and objectives.

+ Oversee the process of interpreting the Association and University program direction to assess, develop, plan, and evaluate educational programs which are reflective of the needs and demographics of the local citizens and communities. Facilitate connections between University staff/faculty and Association program staff. Evaluate the needs for expansion, reduction, or termination of programs.

+ Develop and expand relationships with local, county, state, or federal governments, key elected officials, Cornell University, other CCE Associations, agencies, organizations, industries, and community leaders that help advance the mission and goals of CCE.

+ Guide the development of the Associations finances (and fiscal stewardship), human resources (staff and volunteers), technology, marketing/communications, facilities, and risk management functions.

+ Oversee the process of interpreting Association program direction to assess, develop, plan and evaluate educational programs.

+ Provide leadership for the program development process, including the establishment of priorities, a staffing plan, resource acquisition and allocation, and the evaluation process, to assure program quality, to consider the diversity of the community, and to meet Equal Program Opportunity guidelines.

+ Design a system for ongoing involvement of citizens which expresses the demographics of the community.

+ Develop a shared Association vision, build understanding around the mission and develop appropriate goals and strategies to advance the mission.

+ Oversee the development of brand awareness that aligns with the CCE statewide Plan of Work.

+ Provide leadership for the identification of an appropriate human resources plan – paid and/or volunteer – to carry out the mission, vision and goals of CCE of Seneca County.

+ Oversee professional development initiatives to ensure staff have the knowledge, skills and resources to effectively carry out their jobs.

+ Develop and uphold a culture of continuous learning.

Management – 30 %

+ Lead the daily operations of the Association through its leadership, supervisors, and staff.

+ Frequently inform, negotiate, and collaborate with the Association Board of Directors and Cornell University on Association matters and decisions when needed or required.

+ Lead the implementation of the Association’s strategic plan.

+ Oversee programs to ensure that educational content conforms to research base, policies, and objectives.

+ Maintain and develop revenue streams to sustain and grow Association programming through a diversified fund development plan such as appropriations, grants, contracts, capital campaigns, foundations, individual donors, corporate support, bequests, etc.

+ Represent the Association before a variety of constituencies including alumni, friends, clientele, corporations, and foundations.

+ Strengthen and support Association volunteer recruitment, management, and recognition.

+ Carry out supervisory responsibilities either directly or through subordinate supervisors.

+ Ensure positive program, employee, and volunteer relations.

+ Ensure Association finances (and fiscal stewardship), human resources, technology, marketing/communications, and risk management functions are managed appropriately and in accordance with CCE standards.

+ Ensure all Association activities and operations are carried out in compliance with CCE policy, local, state, and federal regulations, and laws.

+ Participate as a collaborative member in the Finger Lakes Shared Business Network Administrative Management (FLX SBN AMG) group.

+ Oversee the maintenance of Association facilities and assets, such as property, vehicles, etc. including compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, delegating implementation as necessary.

+ Lead the Association in ensuring that all data and information collected, accessed and/or maintained remains confidential to the extent required by policy, regulations and/or laws.

+ Effectively oversee the allocation and alignment of human resources to accomplish the Association's objectives.

+ Implement and manage human resource policies established by the Board of Directors, by Cornell Cooperative Extension, or by state or federal law.

+ Ensure all staff are provided with performance development goals/support, and ensure that written, formal performance reviews are completed on an annual basis.

+ Provide oversight for the entire program cycle of the Association.

+ Delegate program management responsibilities to Extension Educators as appropriate.

+ Oversee programs to ensure that educational content conforms to research base, policies and objectives of the Association and is research knowledge based.

+ Oversee the management of program activities within the Association Plan of Work.

Professional Improvement – 5%

+ In cooperation with Board President and State Extension Specialist, jointly develop and pursue a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes and Association priorities.

+ Participate in all required orientation, training, and/or in-service meetings and trainings as scheduled/required.

+ Pursue personal growth through expanding personal knowledge of the total organization and through updating techniques and technical skills relating to the position.

+ Collaborate with activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension and perform other duties as assigned.

Health and Safety – Applied to all duties and functions.

+ Support the Association to maintain a safe working environment.

+ Be familiar with and strive to follow any applicable federal, state, local regulations, Association health and safety policy/procedure/requirement and standard.

+ Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors when identified.

Policy – Applied to all duties and functions.

+ Maintain respectful and professional interactions with clientele, staff, volunteers and the public.

+ Assist the Cornell Cooperative Extension system in reaching out to various audiences.

+ Aware of, and adheres to, established Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Orange County policies, procedures and Cornell Cooperative Extension Skills for Success.

+ Contribute to the overall success of the organization by performing all assigned duties in a professional, timely and accurate manner.

Position Details

This is a full time (40h/week) exempt position. Compensation paid at the rate of $82,000 - $86,000 annually. Excellent benefits, based on eligibility, including:

+ Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal leave

+ Paid Holidays

+ NYS Health Insurance Program (including free Dental Insurance)

+ NYS Retirement (NYSERS)

+ Long-Term Disability Insurance

+ Total Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

+ Tax Deferred Annuity Plan

+ Flexible Spending Accounts

+ Group Universal Life Insurance

+ Personal Accidental Insurance

+ Legal Plan Insurance

+ Long Term Care Insurance

+ Auto and Homeowner’s Insurance

+ Pet Insurance

+ New York’s College Savings Program

+ ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship available.

For additional questions please contact Kelsey James, Association Lead Human Resources Manager, e-mail [email protected]

https://senecacountycce.org/

Job Title:

Association Exec Director

Level:

No Grade - Annual

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Company:

Contract College

Contact Name:

Kelsey James

Cornell Cooperative Extension is a collaboration among Cornell University, the United States Department of Agriculture, the State of New York, and the residents of New York State. Per NYS Law, county and regional extension service associations are subordinate government agencies. This employment opportunity is with the entities listed and not with Cornell University.

Notice to Applicants: Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement (https://cals.cornell.edu/cornell-cooperative-extension/join-us/jobs) . This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell Cooperative Extension as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.