Executive Director

Executive Director

Chico Velo

 

Job Type: Full-time, At-Will, Exempt

Location: Chico, CA (hybrid, regional travel)

Reports to: Board of Directors

Salary Range (DOE): $85,000 - $110,000

About Chico Velo

 

Chico Velo is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization dedicated to promoting bicycling for transportation, recreation, and health through public education, advocacy, and community stewardship. We produce beloved community events including the Wildflower Ride & Festival and the Butte County Gravel Grind, maintain trails and bike infrastructure, and champion bicycle-friendly policies across the region. We are a passionate, volunteer-powered organization with deep roots in the Chico community — and we're growing.

The Opportunity

 

Chico Velo is seeking an Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity for a mission-driven leader to take the helm of a well-loved nonprofit and make a lasting impact on bicycle culture and active transportation in Chico and Butte County. We are looking for someone we can invest in — a leader who will grow with us, shape our future, and bring both strategic vision and hands-on energy to the role.

 

The Executive Director reports directly to the Chico Velo Board of Directors and is responsible for the overall leadership, management, execution and growth of Chico Velo, including programs, community events, advocacy, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

Organizational Leadership

 

• Provide visionary leadership and day-to-day management of Chico Velo's operations, staff, and volunteers.

• Work in close partnership with the Board of Directors to execute strategic priorities and long-range planning.

• Cultivate a positive, inclusive organizational culture aligned with Chico Velo's mission and values.

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and public face of the organization.

 

Community & Stakeholder Relations

 

• Build and sustain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, members, community partners, and elected officials.

• Represent Chico Velo's interests in local, regional, and statewide advocacy forums.

• Communicate the organization's work and impact compellingly across multiple channels and audiences.

 

Programs, Events & Advocacy

 

• Manage and develop existing programs including Bike Valet, Trailworks & Adopt-A-Path.

• Oversee the planning and execution of signature events including the Wildflower Ride & Festival, Butte County Gravel Grind and other community events.

• Lead and advance Chico Velo's bicycle advocacy agenda, including active transportation priorities, community education and safety awareness.

• Represent Chico Velo in public affairs settings, including engagement with City of Chico and Butte County government, community coalitions, and regional partners.

• Drive program development and innovation to expand Chico Velo's reach and impact.

 

Financial & Personnel Management

 

• Lead fundraising strategy and donor stewardship efforts to diversify and expand the organization's funding base.

• Oversee fiscal operations including budgeting, financial reporting, and long-term financial sustainability.

• Manage and grow revenue streams including membership, events, sponsorships, grants, and donations.

• Ensure compliance with nonprofit financial and legal requirements, as well as HR requirements related to employees.

 

Qualifications

 

Required

 

• 3+ years of mid- to senior level organizational leadership experience, including managing staff, volunteers, or complex programs

• Strong fiscal management skills, including budget oversight, financial reporting, and resource stewardship

• Proven fundraising experience — from individual donors, foundations, grants, or sponsorships

• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills; ability to inspire and engage diverse audiences

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with a track record of effective collaboration across sectors

• Genuine personal interest in and commitment to bicycle advocacy, active transportation, or outdoor recreation

• Excellent professional references

• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Chico area

• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license due to job requirements

• Background check

 

Highly Desired

 

• Nonprofit management experience, including board relations and nonprofit governance

• Experience working with or within public affairs or government relations.

• Familiarity with Chico and/or Butte County bicycle communities

• Familiarity with local, regional, state and federal bicycle-related priorities

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field

 

Physical Demands

 

• Occasionally lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.

 

Other

 

• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check

• Required to work on-site at least 3 days per week (minimum 24 hours per week) between Monday and Friday, during regular business hours.

• Occasionally required to work evenings and weekends throughout the year to attend meetings and execute events

 

Compensation & Benefits

 

• Salary: $85,000 – $110,000 annually, commensurate with experience

• Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) up to $6,500/year

• 15 days/120 hours paid vacation accrual per year

• Paid sick leave

• 8 paid holidays

• Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel

• Technology stipend

• The opportunity to lead and shape a beloved community organization at a pivotal moment in its growth

 

Location

 

This position is based in Chico, California. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Chico area. The Executive Director must work from the Chico Velo office at least 3 days per week (minimum 24 hours per week) between Monday and Friday during regular business hours. If working remotely on the other 2 days, this role must be available during regular business hours and also available for in person meetings when needed.

 

How to Apply

 

To apply, please email your resume, cover letter, and two professional references (including their phone numbers and email addresses) to Board@chicovelo.org.

 

Please describe your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the position and Chico Velo's mission. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Employment offer contingent upon consent to and successful completion of a background check.

 

Chico Velo is an equal opportunity organization. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.