Description

Utah Clean Energy stands strong in this moment of extraordinary momentum and possibility. For nearly 25 years, we’ve built a reputation as one of Utah’s most effective and trusted voices for practical, bipartisan clean energy and climate solutions. 

Now, as Founder and CEO Sarah Wright prepares to pass the torch, the Board of Directors seeks a new Chief Executive Officer to carry this legacy forward and lead the organization into our next era of growth, innovation, and impact. 

This is an opportunity to lead a respected organization that has proven the power of collaboration over polarization and solutions over rhetoric. The next CEO will guide Utah Clean Energy as we deepen our impact in Utah and our influence across the Intermountain West  — expanding visibility, forging new partnerships, and mobilizing collective action to confront the defining challenge of our time. The new CEO will join a talented, mission-driven team with deep technical expertise and a shared belief in a bold, inspiring vision: a future that ensures healthy, thriving communities for all, empowered and sustained by clean energy. 

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Who you are: 

• You are a visionary and grounded leader — driven by purpose, guided by integrity, and motivated by the belief that pragmatic, equitable clean energy solutions can change the world and that Utah can be a model for the nation.
• You are a champion for climate progress — a voice that inspires hope, action, and confidence in Utah’s ability to lead.
• You are undaunted by complexity and fueled by possibility. You see connections where others see divides and believe in building bridges that endure.
• You are a connector and communicator — engaging partners across political, business, and community lines with authenticity and respect.
• You are an inspirer of people — someone who empowers teams, builds trust, and mobilizes others toward bold, shared goals that matter.
• Above all, you are unyielding: Your determination to address climate change is unwavering, driven by a conviction that we can overcome the obstacles in our path. 

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

The CEO reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for advancing our mission with integrity and positioning the organization to scale our influence throughout the region. The CEO’s core responsibilities include: 

Strategic Leadership & Vision 

• Partner with the Board and leadership team to define the organization’s path forward, grounded in mission, values, and long-term goals
• Translate vision into clear strategies and measurable outcomes that move the needle on climate and energy policy
• Ensure every opportunity aligns with Utah Clean Energy’s strategic focus and core competencies

External Engagement & Representation 

• Serve as Utah Clean Energy’s chief ambassador and public voice with policymakers, business and community leaders, funders, and media 
• Build authentic relationships across ideological and geographic lines, earning trust through integrity, pragmatism, and shared purpose
• Strengthen Utah Clean Energy’s reputation as a credible, bridge-building problem-solver

Organizational Leadership & Culture 

• Foster a collaborative, high-performing culture rooted in respect, inclusion, and transparency
• Empower and inspire senior staff and experts with clarity of vision and trust in their leadership
• Model balance and well-being while maintaining excellence and accountability

Fundraising & Development 

• Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with donors, foundations, and partners who share our values and aspirations
• Lead compelling storytelling about our impact to inspire deeper investment and engagement and  support staff to convey this impact through grants and other fundraising materials
• Partner with the Board and development team to diversify and grow funding streams that ensure long-term sustainability

Operational & Financial Stewardship 

• Maintain strong fiscal health, transparency, and compliance
• Oversee budgets, project costing, and financial systems that support responsible growth 
• Ensure operational excellence across all functions 

Requirements

CORE QUALIFICATIONS

While the most competitive candidates likely possess the following qualifications, we know that not every candidate may. If you have read and been inspired by this position description and candidate profile, we hope you’ll apply. 

• Ten or more years of progressively responsible leadership experience in nonprofit, public, or related sectors
• Proven success in organizational management, fundraising, and external relations, including experience working with or within a board of directors
• Expertise in climate and energy, including public policies that advance productive climate solutions  
• Proven ability to work effectively and in a non-partisan manner, to build relationships across ideological differences, and to navigate complex political landscapes such as Utah
• Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and develop diverse teams toward shared goals
• Strong financial and operational acumen, with experience managing budgets and complex projects
• Success leading organizations through growth and transition
• Deep commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and collaboration within organizational culture and external partnerships 

COMPENSATION

This is a full-time exempt position with a starting salary range projected to be $165,000 to $185,000. Salary considerations include relevant, demonstrated experience, budget, internal equity, and reference checks. Utah Clean Energy’s benefits package includes company-paid health insurance, 403(b) retirement plan contributions, life and long-term disability insurance coverage, paid leave (vacation, sick, holiday, parental and family), paid sabbatical program, and a hybrid work environment that supports strong work-life harmony.  

TIMELINE, APPLICATION & MUTUAL EXPLORATION PROCESS 

The initial application deadline is December 1, 2025, though the position is open until filled. 

Read the full job posting at Utah Clean Energy HERE