EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC (preferred). Candidates in New York City or San Francisco will also be considered.
The full position description can be read below, or as a PDF file linked here.
To apply please submit your resume and short responses in this Google Form Application linked here.* Questions can be directed to board@cleanenergyleaders.org.
*IMPORTANT: Please note that in order to enter the Google Form Application, you will need to use a gmail address.
Position Summary
CELI is seeking a visionary, strategic, and mission-driven Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization into its next phase of growth. The ideal candidate will have experience scaling nonprofit organizations from $1 million to over $5 million in revenue, experience and a strong network in the clean energy sector, and a proven track record in nonprofit leadership and fundraising.
The Executive Director will work closely with CELI’s Board of Directors and team to build organizational capacity, grow funding streams, deepen program impact, and expand CELI’s influence in the clean energy ecosystem. Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and mission-centered organizational culture. This role reports directly to the Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership & Strategy
● Provide strategic leadership to advance CELI’s mission and long-term vision.
● Lead and manage a high-performing team to execute and evolve CELI’s programs.
○ The team currently includes two FTEs, support contractors, and a dedicated set of volunteers from the fellowship alumni community.
● Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and support effective governance.
Fundraising & Revenue Growth
● Design and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to grow CELI’s revenue.
● Cultivate and steward relationships with philanthropic funders.
● Identify and advance partnership opportunities with corporate partners, content partners, or other ecosystem players.
● Scale up earned revenue and impact of CELI’s programs.
Program Oversight & Innovation
● Oversee the continued excellence and evolution of CELI’s Fellowship and other programming.
● Ensure CELI’s content, approach, and delivery are aligned with its commitment to energy equity, justice, and leadership development.
● Identify and pursue opportunities to expand CELI’s reach and impact.
External Relations & Thought Leadership
● Lead communications including web, email newsletters, social media, and annual reports.
● Represent CELI at clean energy and nonprofit sector forums, leveraging networks to advance its visibility and position as a trusted partner.
● Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for CELI’s mission, fellows, and alumni community.
Organizational Management & Program Execution
● Lead CELI’s annual budgeting process, manage accounting, and maintain compliance with nonprofit regulatory requirements.
● Define team roles and responsibilities, hire, train, and manage the team.
Qualifications
● Minimum 8–10 years of relevant experience, including nonprofit executive leadership and program management.
● Demonstrated success scaling a nonprofit from $1 million to over $5 million in revenue.
● Proven track record in foundation and corporate fundraising, including securing individual grants of over $1 million.
● Deep knowledge of or strong network in the clean energy industry; personal passion for climate and energy justice strongly preferred.
● Experience with leadership development, equity-focused programming, or professional fellowships is a plus.
● Excellent communication, partnership-building, and team leadership skills.
● Commitment to CELI’s values of equity, inclusion, and systems-level impact.
Location
This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC (preferred). Candidates in New York City or San Francisco will also be considered.
Compensation
CELI offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Expected base compensation is $150,000 with a performance incentive of up to 15%.
How To Apply
Please submit your application through the Google Form (linked here)*, that includes your PDF’d resume detailing relevant experience for the position, as well as five short answer responses. Submit any questions via email to board@cleanenergyleaders.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
*IMPORTANT: Please note that in order to enter the Google Form Application, you will need to use a gmail address.
About CELI
The Clean Energy Leadership Institute (CELI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to building a diverse community of change-makers driving an equitable, decarbonized, and resilient energy future. Through its flagship Fellowship and other community programming, CELI equips emerging leaders with energy systems expertise, energy justice principles, and adaptive leadership skills to shape the clean energy transition.
Over the past decade, CELI has trained nearly 1,500 professionals and engaged more than 6,350 individuals across sectors including policy, advocacy, industry, startups, and nonprofits. CELI’s active alumni network is a powerful force in advancing solutions for an equitable energy economy.
CELI’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging are critical to CELI’s Mission. We strongly encourage people of color and those who identify as LGBTQ+ to apply. CELI does not discriminate based upon race/ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a veteran, status as an individual with a disability, and any other characteristics.