Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council, Executive Director

Executive Director Opportunity At Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council

The mission of the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council (NREC) is to fund science-based research and educational programs that optimize nutrient use efficiency, improve soil fertility, and protect water quality. Created to support the state's Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy, NREC connects agriculture with environmental stewardship to ensure farmers can maximize yields while minimizing environmental impacts. The council's core objectives include:

• Funding Targeted Research: Soliciting and backing peer-reviewed research on soil reactions, nutrient management, and conservation practices.
• Driving Economic Value: Emphasizing the Return on Investment (ROI) for farmers by identifying the most cost-effective and efficient fertilizer management tactics (such as tools calculating the Maximum Return to Nitrogen).
• Educational Outreach: Translating research findings into actionable, on-farm tactics through educational programs for farmers, Certified Crop Advisers, and agribusiness professionals.

NREC, a statewide organization established by the Illinois Fertilizer Act in 2012, is Illinois agriculture's commitment to enhance nutrient utilization, increase crop production and protect water quality. Funded through a fertilizer tonnage assessment, the organization has invested approximately $43M to date into research projects supporting the state's Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and promoting sustainable farming practices. Without this funding, the industry would be without critical research into maximizing the efficiency of agricultural nutrients while minimizing any possible negative impacts to the environment. NREC is governed by a 13-member Board of Directors and has an operating budget of approximately $5M with two full-time staff (Executive Director and Research Director).

The Executive Director role presents a unique opportunity for a strategic, relationship-driven leader to help shape the future of the NREC. As the organization's senior leader, the Executive Director will play a highly visible and hands-on role in advancing NREC's mission, expanding its reach, and strengthening its impact across the agricultural and research communities. Because NREC is comprised of a diverse stakeholder group with differing agendas and priorities, the Executive Director must be able to keep everyone focused on mutual interest and benefit. Given the organization's lean structure, the Executive Director will oversee a broad portfolio of operational and financial responsibilities. In addition to leading the organization's education, outreach, and stakeholder engagement efforts, the Executive Director will oversee the recruitment and hiring of a permanent Research Director, as the position is currently being filled on an interim basis. This partnership between the Executive Director and Research Director is central to the organization's success and offers the incoming leader an opportunity to help shape the future structure, culture, and strategic direction of the organization.

A primary focus of the Executive Director will be translating and elevating NREC's funded research for a broad range of audiences. The successful candidate will build awareness of the Council and its work by communicating research findings in compelling and accessible ways to growers, industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and other key stakeholders. The Executive Director will serve as a connector and ambassador, ensuring that NREC remains a trusted and influential voice in nutrient management research and education The Executive Director will also provide leadership and support to the Board of Directors and its committees, helping drive strategic priorities, governance, and organizational effectiveness. In partnership with Board leadership, the Executive Director will coordinate, produce, and manage key convenings and events, including the annual Investment Insights Live meeting, where funded research projects are presented and discussed and future research funding priorities are evaluated and determined.

An important aspect of the position is serving as the public face of the organization. The Executive Director will communicate NREC's impact to farmers, policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and environmental stakeholders while helping build consensus around nutrient stewardship and water quality goals. Success in the role will depend on strong communication and relationship-building skills, strategic leadership capabilities, and the ability to translate scientific research into practical agricultural solutions that resonate with diverse audiences. The Executive Director will have the chance to lead a respected and influential organization at a pivotal time for agriculture and environmental sustainability. As nutrient efficiency, soil health, and water quality continue to be central issues for Illinois agriculture, the Executive Director will play a role in shaping research investments, advancing innovation, and ensuring that Illinois producers have access to science-based solutions that support both productivity and environmental responsibility.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a collaborative and entrepreneurial leader who thrives in a lean organizational environment, values scientific research and education, and is energized by building partnerships, amplifying impact, and advancing meaningful work that benefits agriculture and environmental stewardship nationwide.

Position Summary: The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the NREC, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and external representation. This position is responsible for advancing NREC's mission to enhance nutrient utilization, increase crop production, and protect water quality in support of agricultural innovation and sustainability through grantmaking.

Core Competencies: Leadership & Strategy, Program Management, Operations & Financial Management, External Relations & Advocacy