Our VISION is to position the Rhode Island Marine Industry as the leader in our community and our economy.

Executive Director

Photo of the deck of a wooden sailboat at sea.

Rhode Island Marine Trades Association
Job Description
Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Rhode Island Marine Trade Association (RIMTA)
Location: Newport, RI (Hybrid work environment available)
Reports to: RIMTA Board of Directors

 

About RIMTA
RIMTA is a nonprofit trade organization dedicated to advancing the marine trades industry in Rhode Island through advocacy, workforce development, sustainability, innovation and community promotion. Its mission is to champion the industry and position it as a leader in the state’s economy and culture.
RIMTA supports its members by representing their interests at all levels of government, providing training and education programs, hosting industry events and leading environmental initiatives.

Position Summary
The Executive Director of RIMTA is responsible for the execution of the Organizations   strategic plan, financial health, operational management and effective performance. The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors, staff, industry partners and government agencies to lead initiatives that drive economic growth within the marine trades. This role demands a dynamic leader with a strong background in nonprofit management, grant management and industry engagement.

 
Key Responsibilities
 
Strategic Leadership
• Implement RIMTA’s strategic plan aligned with its mission.
• Represent RIMTA across sectors to advocate for the marine trades and build key partnerships.
• Strategize and implement multiple income-generating initiatives.
 
Nonprofit Management & Governance
• Oversee operations including finance, HR, compliance, fundraising and communications.
• Maintain effective policies, procedures, and performance metrics.
 
Organizational & Program Oversight
• Ensure fiscal oversight, grant compliance and budget management.
• Lead a collaborative, high-performing team focused on member value.
• Manage the full grant lifecycle, from development through evaluation.
 
Communications, Membership & Advocacy
• Grow and support membership through strong services and communication.
Advocate for RIMTA members at the local, state, and national levels.
• Lead PR and marketing to elevate RIMTA and the industry.
 
Workforce Development & Industry Alignment
• Develop workforce programs for youth, adults and reentry populations.
• Align training with industry needs through partnerships with schools, employers and agencies.
• Support CTE standards and certifications to strengthen the talent pipeline.
 
Environmental Stewardship & Innovation
• Lead environmental and sustainability programs
(e.g., shrink wrap and fiberglass recycling, Clean Marina, Clean Vessel Act).
• Promote innovation and engage the marine sector in the ocean economy.

 

 
Qualifications
  • Proven leadership experience in nonprofit, business, or public-sector settings, ideally within marine trades, advocacy or workforce development.
  • In-depth knowledge of the marine industry and/or Rhode Island’s economic landscape strongly preferred.
  • Strong grasp of nonprofit governance, financial management and strategic planning.
  • Demonstrated success in overseeing programs, managing grants and cultivating partnerships.
  • Experience in budgeting, staff supervision and organizational planning.
  • Exceptional internal and external communication, interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
  • Entrepreneurial approach to increasing revenues and business development

Compensation
$100k -$120k DOE

To Apply
Please submit resume and cover letter to careers@rimta.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.