Chief Executive Officer

Scion Executive Searchhas been retained to conduct the search for the incoming Chief Executive Officer on behalf of our client, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, an excursion railroad serving approximately 200,000 passengers annually along the Ohio and Erie Canalway and through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northeast Ohio. This tremendous full-time opportunity is located onsite in the organizations headquarters in Peninsula Ohio.

ABOUT CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD (CVSR):

For over a quarter of a century, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) has been an integral part of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Since its establishment in 1989, the partnership with the National Park has been fundamental to its operations. Drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually, they seamlessly integrate educational and entertainment programs with their train services. Guided by a dedicated volunteer staff, passenger safety is a top priority, ensuring enjoyable journeys of discovery for visitors of all ages.

As a Class III railroad, managing both diesel-electric and steam-powered trains, their primary focus is on servicing the scenic areas of Peninsula, Ohio, nestled within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With a commitment to preserving and restoring vintage railcars and locomotives, CVSR ensures the continued enjoyment of rail travel for future generations.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is seeking an ambitious and community-oriented CEO to spearhead the organization's growth and impact. This leadership role requires a dynamic individual who will expand programs, engage with stakeholders, and establish vital resources for future endeavors. As the CEO of a nonprofit excursion railroad, this individual will oversee operations along the Ohio and Erie Canalway and throughout Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northeast Ohio. Key stakeholders include full-time employees, volunteers, trustees, the National Park, partner organizations, foundations, government officials, civic leaders, and the public.

The ideal candidate will foster a collaborative and diverse work environment, cultivating relationships with the Board of Trustees and leveraging external resources effectively. Immediate priorities include establishing CVSR as a prominent partner within Cuyahoga Valley National Park and building strong connections with trustees, volunteers, members, and donors. Rapid familiarization with operational regulations, agreements, and organizational dynamics is crucial to ensure smooth functioning both within and outside the Park.

Balancing the dual identity of a growing business reliant on ticket sales and revenue, alongside a nonprofit seeking funding for capital improvements, the CEO must navigate complex financial landscapes adeptly. With CVSR's ethos rooted in a proactive, hands-on approach, fiscal prudence, volunteer engagement, and unwavering commitment to ethical and safety standards, the CEO will lead with vision, integrity, and a passion for preserving this cherished heritage.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide inspiring leadership to foster fellowship and camaraderie among staff, volunteers, and the Board.
• Ensure compliance with federal railway safety, occupational safety, and environmental regulations for safe and efficient railroad operations.
• Develop and execute strategies to boost ridership and revenue, aligned with the long-term strategic plan.
• Lead fundraising and membership initiatives to sustain operations and facilitate capital improvements.
• Cultivate strong relationships with the National Park and partner organizations. Support and engage a vibrant volunteer base.
• Serve as the primary liaison with major stakeholders, media, and the public.
• Manage annual operating and capital budgets effectively.
• Deliver timely reports and policy recommendations to the Board of Trustees.
• Achieve personal objectives set by the Board's executive committee annually.
• Collaborate closely with the Board to ensure strategic decision-making aligns with organizational growth objectives.
• Provide regular updates and progress reports to the Board. Analyze operations and program development to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Lead with an entrepreneurial mindset, making informed business decisions.
• Foster innovation and apply performance measurements to inform strategic decisions.
• Gain Board approval and support for strategic plans.
• Work with staff and the Resource Development committee to refine fundraising plans.
• Lead outreach and community relations efforts to promote the organization's mission consistently and positively.
  
  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 5 years of demonstrated leadership experience in a senior or executive level role.
• Exceptional communication and public relations skills to serve as the face of the railroad to the community, media, National Park, and funders.
• Ability to build teams, navigate relationships with various stakeholders, and demonstrate strategic planning capabilities.
• Prior successful experience working directly with and/or reporting to a Board of Directors.
• Track record of effectively managing a volunteer-driven organization with success.
• Strong business acumen coupled with a history of making well-informed and strategic business decisions.
• An innate ability to come up to speed quickly on all federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Demonstrated success in executing strategic plans.
• Flexible educational requirements with a strong emphasis on practical experience and financial acumen.
• Regional knowledge of Northeast Ohio is preferred.
• Experience in railroads and railcar preservation is a plus!
  
  

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

This full-time, onsite opportunity is responsible for making a significant impact in the Northeastern Ohio Community. In addition to a competitive base salary of $175,000 (DOE), this role also includes access to a comprehensive benefits package. This package encompasses medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees, FMLA generous vacation time, paid US holidays, paternity leave, and a 401(k) plan.

APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS:

CVSR has retained the services of Scion Executive Search, a national executive search firm specializing in mission-driven organization recruitment, to assist in conducting this important search. For immediate consideration please apply with your resume and cover letter, formatted in Microsoft Word, via:https://scionexecutivesearch.com/job/11536/

Please address applications to:

Chelsea Zimmer, Executive Search Principal

Scion Executive Search

Review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.

ABOUT OUR FIRM:

Scion Executive Searchis an award-winning retained executive search firm. Our track record and recruitment process have made us one of the top recruitment firms in the United States. Through innovative team building and recruitment solutions, Scion Executive Search seamlessly bridges the gap in interim and executive searches. Our track record and recruitment process have made us one of the top recruitment firms in the nation.??

We are proud to be part of the Forbes lists of the Best Recruitment Firms and the Best Executive Search Firms in America. Additionally, Scion has been recognized as a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing firm as well as a top recruitment firm by The Business Times. Additional information about our firm and our practices can be foundonline.

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