TreePeople_CEO

CANDIDATE PROFILE

POSITION TITLE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PRIMARY LOCATION

LOS ANGELES, CA

CREATED FOR

TREEPEOPLE

About the Organization

TreePeople’s mission is to inspire, engage and support people to take personal responsibility for the urban environment, making it safe, healthy, fun and sustainable and to share our process as a model for the world

mere conservation to embrace a holistic vision of urban sustainability and community empowerment

Since its inception in 1973, when a teenager's aspirations took flight, TreePeople has burgeoned into one of Southern California's foremost environmental organizations At its core lies a commitment to inspire, engage, and support individuals in assuming personal responsibility for their urban environments Central to this ethos is the recognition that environmental equality is not just a concept but a lived reality, where diverse populations and communities are integral participants in shaping a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world

With a history marked by resilience and adaptability, TreePeople has mobilized over three million individuals to take tangible action in safeguarding our environment From reforesting scorched landscapes ravaged by wildfires to transforming barren schoolyards into vibrant green spaces, TreePeople's initiatives reflect a deep-seated dedication to serving communities in need Importantly, this commitment extends beyond the immediate alleviation of environmental challenges to foster enduring solutions that empower individuals and neighborhoods to thrive in harmony with nature

In the face of mounting environmental threats compounded by a rapidly changing climate, TreePeople remains steadfast in its pursuit of actionable solutions Through innovative programs and on-the-ground research, TreePeople not only addresses the urgent imperatives of today but also lays the groundwork for a more resilient tomorrow By disseminating knowledge and expertise to policymakers, educators, and communities worldwide, TreePeople exemplifies a model of environmental advocacy that transcends geographic boundaries, fostering a global movement towards sus the peo and

Trees need People People need Trees

Born in 1973 from the hopes and dreams of a teenager, TreePeople is now one of the largest environmental organizations headquartered in Southern California We have inspired, engaged, and supported more than 3 million people to take action for our environment by planting and caring for trees in forests, mountains, parks, and our neighborhoods Our unique, engaging, and proven model empowers communities to plant a more resilient future and take personal responsibility for greening their neighborhoods Through our on-the-ground research and educational programs, TreePeople shares knowledge with policymakers, students and educators, and communities around the world

After fires burn, TreePeople reforests When schools are covered in concrete, TreePeople creates green schoolyards When communities experience food insecurity, TreePeople donates fruit trees When California is drought-stricken, TreePeople designs solutions to capture rainwater As the world faces increasing threats from a more hostile climate, TreePeople helps create actionable solutions

We do this through your involvement and support in:

Providing students, teachers and the school community with the knowledge, tools and support they need to create environmental change

Protecting and stewarding natural parks and open spaces

Restoring ecosystems, planting trees, and incorporating naturebased solutions from our pristine forests to our urban streets to our coastal communities

Working towards environmental and social justice among environmentally stressed communities

Conducting cutting-edge research and facilitating policies that support naturebased solutions

- Reforestation initiatives in our mountains

- Urban environment regreening projects

- Promotion of education and outdoor equity

- Implementation of green infrastructure, such as school greening programs

- Advocacy for water equity and sustainable water management

Position Overview

At the helm of TreePeople's mission, the President & CEO shoulders the responsibility of advancing environmental resilience while upholding principles of environmental equality With a robust annual budget of $13 million and a dedicated team of 151 staff members, this leadership role is pivotal in steering TreePeople's transformative agenda towards equitable outcomes Embracing environmental justice as a core principle, the CEO leads initiatives that prioritize marginalized communities, ensuring that the benefits of environmental stewardship reach all, regardless of socioeconomic status The President & CEO's mandate extends beyond operational oversight to spearhead initiatives that foster inclusive partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, civic leaders, and environmental advocates By amplifying the voices of underserved populations and dismantling systemic barriers to environmental access, TreePeople works to address not only ecological challenges but also societal inequalities Through strategic efforts such as reforestation in fire-affected areas and the creation of green spaces in urban neighborhoods, TreePeople exemplifies its commitment to environmental equality, striving to build a future where all individuals can thrive in harmony with nature

In navigating TreePeople towards a future defined by environmental sustainability and equity, the President & CEO prioritizes community engagement and collaboration as key drivers of progress By championing environmental justice as a fundamental aspect of TreePeople's mission, the CEO ensures that the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more just and resilient world, where the benefits of nature are shared equitably among all communities

PRIORITIES

Organizational Leadership

Organizational Strategy

Strengthen Fiscal Management

Improve Operations & Infrastructure Programmatic Innovation

Strengthen Organizational Culture/ DEI

New Donor Relationships

Board Recruitment & Development

First Year GOALS & OBJECTIVES

Stabilize organizational leadership and enhance team cohesion through strategic planning and effective communication

Implement a robust fundraising strategy to secure financial stability and diversify revenue streams

Plan for board growth and development by assessing current composition and making recommendations for improvement

Engage with major community leaders and politicians to expand support and identify new donors

Develop a clear strategic vision for managing organizational growth, emphasizing urban forestry and community engagement

Strengthen fiscal management and organizational operations by weeding out unproductive staff and creating a strong management team

Conduct a thorough review of the current strategy, engaging stakeholders and assessing fundraising approaches and resources

Foster positive relationships with foundations, corporations, major donors, and elected officials to advance TreePeople's mission

Improve messaging and communications to enhance the organization's visibility and impact within the community

Prioritize programs focused on green schools, urban forestry, climate change, and environmental education to create meaningful impact and engage diverse communities

roles & responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

Works with the Board of Directors to develop, drive, and implement the organization’s strategic plan, mission, and vision

Creates and manages an environment that recruits, retains, and supports quality staff, cultivating a culture of professional growth and leadership building

Oversees the recruitment, hiring, and training; ensuring HR policies are updated, upheld, and supported in accordance with the law

Serves as the Principal and Chief communicator for business advocacy with various governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations

Consistently solicits, incorporates, and implements the input and feedback of all organization members

Ensures that all TreePeople business is conducted in compliance with established policies, guidelines, and by-laws, by upholding the highest ethical standards

Manages daily operations and implements Board approved policies and programs

Community Engagement

Represents TreePeople at local, regional, state, and national meetings and conventions to promote the organization’s mission

Develops and maintains a network of peers through regional and national professional organizations

Oversees the development and execution of community events recognized by the organization and enhances community-wide visibility and recognition

Identifies and recruits both established and emerging business and community leaders to serve as volunteer leaders of the organization; supporting and guiding them to contribute to the organization’s success

Develops and maintains strong working relationships with local government officials, Board members, affiliates, and other community leaders to achieve TreePeople’s goals

Financial Management

In collaboration with the CFO, develops and manages financial planning, forecasting, and analytical efforts, ensuring alignment with the overall mission, vision, and strategy of TreePeople

Responsible for the organization’s financial health, including funding generation and expense management

Develops and executes the annual budget and supervises day-to-day fiscal management

Develops and executes fundraising strategies that promote the mission and effectively utilize the organization’s financial resources

Board Administration and Support

Fosters effective collaboration with the Board of Directors and between the Board and staff Empower and support the Board of Directors to fulfill its governance functions Plans, organizes, and executes Board and executive committee meetings with the Board Chair

Identifies, assesses, and informs the Board of Directors of internal and external issues impacting the organization

qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e g , nonprofit management, business administration, social work, or a related discipline) A master's degree may be preferred

A minimum of 5 years experience as an Executive Director or higher in a non-profit setting

Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively at all organizational levels

Demonstrated ability to supervise others, support and evaluate colleagues and reports, and maintain high morale and productivity

Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate the organization's and staff's needs

Vision for long-range planning, while focusing on the organization‘s day-to-day needs

Demonstrated ability to work successfully within complex political environments with a strong understanding of advocacy, coalition building, and the legislative process

Experience overseeing a budget of $500,000 or more

Successful track record of managing funding relationships with foundations, donors, or other funding entities

Familiarity with the nonprofit sector, including fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations

Commitment to the organization’s mission

Effective communication skills, both written and verbal

Knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations, and business management theories, practices, and procedures

Proven to be highly motivated, self-directed, results-oriented, and most energized in a fast-paced, multitasked environment

Extensive knowledge of information technology as applied to business operations and external communications

Salaryisbetween$180,000-$220,000withagenerousbenefitspackage

TheTreePeopleisanEqualOpportunityEmployer Allapplicantswillbeconsideredforemployment withoutattentiontoraceorethnicity,color,religion,sex,sexualorientation,genderidentity,nationalorigin, veteranordisabilitystatus

ABOUT The lA Region

Los Angeles County is a vast and varied geographic entity It includes a group of inland valleys, a coastal plain separated by low mountains that are interspersed with steep passes, an arc of still higher mountains, and a long seacoast Nearly half of the county is taken up by mountain chains most of them running east-west that have a dynamic history of earthquakes, firestorms, and mudslides To the north and northeast are the massive and sprawling San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains Stretching in front of them and more or less in parallel lines from west to east are the Santa Monica Mountains, Puente Hills, Repetto Hills, and San Jose Hills These chains delineate the San Fernando, San Gabriel, and San Bernardino valleys Farther south running roughly between Orange and Riverside counties are the Santa Ana Mountains

Los Angeles, the heart of Southern California, became a world-class city very recently At the start of the 20th century, it was considered merely “a large village ” This ascendancy is all the more remarkable considering that the city originally lacked some of the essential building blocks associated with cityhood, such as a natural harbor Yet it overcame natural deficiencies and established itself as an important center of commerce, agriculture, tourism, and industry For more than a century it has been indelibly associated with a benign climate, extensive leisure, and outdoor recreation, as well as the special aura of celebrity associated with Hollywood The lifestyle of Los Angeles residents (who are called Angelenos) relies on the automobile, idealizes the single-family dwelling, and favors informality With notable exceptions, the skyline is primarily horizontal rather than vertical Los Angeles is a place of extraordinary ethnic and racial diversity, owing largely to immigration

ideal candidate

The ideal candidate for the CEO position at TreePeople is envisioned as a dynamic leader with a strategic mindset, a penchant for innovation, and a collaborative spirit They should possess exceptional communication skills, capable of inspiring and engaging diverse stakeholders across the community A natural builder and influencer, the ideal candidate thrives on fostering relationships and creating a shared vision for nature conservation and community engagement With a professional background ideally rooted in nonprofit organizations, the ideal CEO candidate should bring a wealth of experience in strategic planning, external relations and organizational leadership They should have a proven track record in strategic growth, securing funds from various sources including foundations, corporations, major donors, and government partnerships Moreover, the ideal candidate should excel in team building, stakeholder engagement, and organizational strategy development, fostering a cohesive and engaged board and staff They should also prioritize community engagement, actively connecting with major community leaders, politicians, donors, and volunteers to expand TreePeople's impact and protect natural resources effectively Ultimately, the ideal CEO for TreePeople would be a visionary leader committed to driving measurable progress, enhancing organizational culture, and advancing the mission of nature conservation with a focus on urban forestry and environmental justice

CAREER TRACK leading to chief executive officer

The Chief Executive Officer and President of TreePeople is responsible for internal operations and external relations To effectively manage all stakeholders, the ideal candidates possesses a connection with the service community, relationships with businesses and industry partners in the region, as well as a deep passion for the education of nature conservancy

past POSSIBLE TITLES

Chief Executive Officer

President

Executive Director

Deputy Director

Chief Operating Officer

Chief Administrative Officer

Chief Development Officer

Envision Consulting has been retained by TreePeople to conduct the search for their incoming Chief Executive Officer We follow a comprehensive and structured approach that begins with a needs assessment to understand the organization's position and culture Candidate sourcing is conducted using various strategies, such as leveraging networks, industry-specific databases, and targeted research Our in-depth evaluations are thoughtfully designed to assess qualifications, experience, cultural fit, and leadership potential After two stages of interviews with Envision, we work with the organization's search committee to select the individuals they wish to meet and then curate that interview experience as well as the follow-up We also support the final selection process, including negotiation and offer formulation and offer onboarding support to ensure a smooth transition for the selected candidate Regular communication with the client is maintained throughout the process, providing updates, feedback, and guidance to ensure a successful executive search outcome We also offer clients a 1-year guarantee and executive coaching throughout the first year of employment

Survey Focus Groups 1-1 interviews

Job description & Comms Plan

Candidate Profile

Sourcing & Marketing

Recruiting & Screening Interviews

Face to Face Interviews

Final Panel Interview

Negotiation Support

Onboarding & Coaching

TreePeople is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion or creed, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state or local law with respect to employment opportunities

Envision Consulting is a minority-owned firm specializing in executive search, organizational strategy, merger exploration, and executive leadership transitions With offices in Denver, New York and Los Angeles, our partners and consultants are former executive leaders within nonprofit organizations who are truly inspired by our collective power to lift up the communities we serve Our broad spectrum of services helps increase revenues, expand awareness and strengthen service delivery to the clients who need us the most Learn more at www envisionnonprofit com

MELISSA MONTOYA DIRECTOR OF SEARCH SERVICES

ALLISON FULLER MANAGING PARTNER

MATT KAMIN MANAGING PARTNER

AMANDA MITCHELL CONSULTANT

I N T E R N A L O N L Y

FROM THE SURVEY

OPTIMAL RED FLAG

Arrogant Disorganized Abrasive

Narcissistic Inexperienced

defining impact time to make an impact

180 day objectives

In the first 180 days of their tenure at TreePeople, the new CEO is poised to navigate a complex landscape of emotions and expectations, profoundly shaped by the recent passing of their predecessor The mantle of leadership comes with the delicate task of honoring the legacy left behind, while also steering the organization towards its future ambitions The CEO is expected to adopt a posture of empathy and sensitivity, recognizing the depth of loss felt across the organization and the diverse perspectives that coexist within the Board and staff By embodying the role of a compassionate listener, the CEO aims to bridge gaps, mend fences, and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose Their approach is not to rush into action, but to carefully absorb, understand, and acknowledge the rich tapestry of opinions, hopes, and concerns that animate the heart of TreePeople

Simultaneously, the CEO is tasked with laying the groundwork for strategic direction, albeit with a gentle hand This phase is less about immediate transformation and more about cultivating trust, building relationships, and establishing a comprehensive understanding of the organization's strengths, challenges, and opportunities Through a series of structured dialogues, open forums, and one-on-one conversations, the CEO intends to weave together the collective intelligence and passion of TreePeople's community This patient and inclusive approach is crucial for priming the organization for future strategy development It's a period of assessment and reflection, where the CEO's primary role as a uniter comes to the forefront, setting the stage for collaborative and impactful decision-making that honors the past while boldly embracing the future

The success of the new CEO at TreePeople hinges on their ability to lead the organization through a comprehensive assessment of its current state, coupled with strategic planning and financial management initiatives The CEO should effectively engage with stakeholders, foster team cohesion, and develop a clear strategic vision that aligns organizational goals with community priorities By implementing a robust fundraising strategy, strengthening fiscal management, and enhancing communication efforts, the CEO can position TreePeople for sustainable growth and increased impact in environmental advocacy and community engagement Success for the CEO will be defined by the establishment of clear structures, fostering positive relationships, and driving meaningful progress towards the organization's mission of nature conservation and community empowerment

C U R R E N T

NEEDS ATTENTION STRENGTHS

Environmental Impact

Reputation/Community Presence

Community Engagement

Community Partnerships

Programmatic Excellence & Innovation

FOR CONSIDERATION

Organizational Leadership

Organizational Strategy

Strategic Planning

Operations Management

Fiscal Management

As the Board of Directors contemplates the leadership transition at TreePeople, it is crucial to acknowledge a significant divergence in perspectives between the Board and the staff, particularly concerning the organization's internal infrastructure The Board has rightly identified operations and finance as core considerations, pinpointing these areas as essential for sustainable growth and organizational resilience This viewpoint underscores a strategic focus aimed at bolstering the foundational elements that support the broader mission of TreePeople However, it's important to recognize that the staff's priorities emphasizing fundraising and board recruiting reflect a different but equally vital understanding of what the organization requires to thrive This discrepancy in focus highlights a fundamental disagreement on where the immediate strengths and weaknesses lie within TreePeople, suggesting a need for a nuanced approach to leadership that can reconcile these differences

In light of this, the Board is advised to consider the importance of careful management and communication as a new leader steps into place The new CEO's role should extend beyond the mere operational or strategic direction; they must also act as a mediator who can navigate the differing priorities of the Board and staff It is imperative for the new leader to recognize the value in both viewpoints, finding a balanced approach that addresses the Board's concerns for operational and financial stability, while also championing the staff's push for enhanced fundraising efforts and strategic board recruitment By acknowledging and respecting these divergent perspectives, the new CEO can forge a path forward that unites these two critical facets of the organization, ensuring that both the foundational and aspirational elements of TreePeople are addressed in a harmonious and productive manner

Budget & financials Overview

TOTAL REVENUE (2022)

$13,102,818

TOTAL EXPENSES (2021) $12,034,054

FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT (CANDID)

Compensation Analysis

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

Forest Conservation (C36)

Environmental Education and Outdoor Survival Programs (C60)

CHIEF

COMPENSATION RECOMMENDATION

This data regarding total compensation by city and state was gathered from the Fair Pay for California nonprofits and the 2021 Compensation & Benefits Survey Report The other data was gathered from the 2022 Candid Nonprofit Compensation Report

A review of all available data indicates the following recommendation:

$190,000 - $240,000

COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

In Order of Budget Size (page 1 of 2)

TreePeople Inc

Beverly Hills, CA

www.treepeople.org

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Mgmt (C32)

Forest Conservation (C36)

Environmental Education/ Outdoor Survival Programs (C60)

$13,102,818

The Nature Conservancy Arlington, VA

www nature org

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification N E C (C99)

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

Environmental Education and Outdoor Survival Programs (C60)

$1,312,108,803

Trust for Public Land Los Angeles, CA

www tpl org

Land Resources Conservation (C34)

$193,309,210

Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc New York, NY

www nrdc org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

$186,185,838

National Audubon Society, Inc

New York City, NY

www audubon org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

$150,045,491

The Arbor Day Foundation Lincoln, NE

www arborday org

Forest Conservation (C36)

$97,035,028

Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific Long Beach, CA

www aquariumofpacific org

Zoo, Zoological Society (D50) Elementary, Secondary Ed (B20) Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

$51,747,392

National Forest Foundation Missoula, MT

www naturalforests org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Forest Conservation (C36) Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

$49,084,308

Liberty Hill Foundation Los Angeles, CA Public Foundations (T30)

Civil Rights, Social Action, and Advocacy N E C (R99) Fund Raising and/or Fund Distribution (R12)

$39,001,414

LA Conservation Corps Los Angeles, CA

www lacorps org

Youth Development Programs (O50)

Environmental Beautification (C50)

Employment Training (J22)

$25,264,129

American Forests

Washington, DC

www americanforests org

Forest Conservation (C36)

Pollution Abatement and Control Services (C20)

Management & Technical Assistance (S02)

$21,945,499

Yosemite Conservancy San Francisco, CA

www yosemite org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Fund Raising and/or Fund

Distribution (C12)

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

$23,940,076

Koreatown Youth and Community Center Inc Los Angeles, CA

www kyccla org

Ethnic/Immigrant Services (P84)

Children's and Youth Services (P30)

Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

$15,289,972

Ecology Center Berkeley, CA

www ecologycenter org

Environmental Education and Outdoor Survival Programs (C60)

Recycling (C27)

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

$14,736,227

COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

In Order of Budget Size (page 2 of 2)

Substainable Forestry Initiative Washington, DC www forests org

Forest Conservation (C36)

$11,890,254

Communities For A Better Environment Huntington Park, CA www cbecal org

Energy Resources Conservation and Development (C35)

Alliance/Advocacy Organizations (R01)

$7,418,777

Heal the Bay

Santa Monica, CA

www healthebay org

Alliance/Advocacy Organizations (C01)

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

Research Institutes and/or Public Policy Analysis (C05)

$5,604,057

Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security Oakland, CA www pacinst org

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification N E C (C99)

Research Institutes and/or Public Policy Analysis (U05)

Research Institutes and/or Public Policy Analysis (W05)

$5,251,630

Council for Watershed Health Pasadena, CA

www watershedhealth org

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

Land Resources Conservation (C34)

Management & Technical Assistance (C02)

$3,189,004

Pacoima Beautiful Pacoima, CA

www pacoimabeautiful org

Environmental Education and Outdoor Survival Programs (C60)

Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

Pollution Abatement and Control Services (C20)

$3,848,581

The Santa Monica Bay Restoration Foundation Playa Del Rey, CA

www santamonicabay org

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification N E C (C99)

$3,100,072

Los Angeles Conservancy Los Angeles, CA

www laconservancy org

Other Art, Culture, Humanities Organizations/Services N E C (A99)

$2,729,730

North East Trees

Los Angeles, CA

www northeasttrees org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Agricultural, Youth Development (O52)

Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

$2,219,707

California Environmental Voters Education Fund Oakland, CA

www envirovotesedfund org

Natural Resource Conservation and Protection (C30)

Voter Education/Registration (R40)

Citizen Participation (W24)

$2,467,571

Canopy

Palo Alto, CA

www canopy org

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

Forest Conservation (C36)

Educational Services and Schools - Other (B90)

$1,527,418

California Releaf Sacramento, CA

www californiareleaf org

Environmental Quality, Protection, and Beautification

N E C (C99)

Alliance/Advocacy Organizations (C01)

Urban, Community (S31) $1,092,611

Groundwork Richmond Richmond, CA

www groundworkrichmond or Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

Other Public Safety, Disaster Preparedness, and Relief N E C (M99)

Urban, Community (S31) $854,051

River LA

Los Angeles, CA

www riverla org

Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

Water Resource, Wetlands Conservation and Management (C32)

Physical Fitness/Community Recreational Facilities (N30 $601,663

Hui International Davis, CA

Community, Neighborhood Development, Improvement (S20)

$309,885