Take the next step in your cooperative career!

The following is a list of current employment opportunities at Cooperative Network or with our member cooperatives. Please visit this page often to see new positions as they become available.

Cooperative Network is seeking a transformative leader who can turn strategy into action and guide our organization into the future. As the trusted voice for cooperatives in Wisconsin and Minnesota, Cooperative Network champions the cooperative movement and provides vital resources to our diverse member organizations. The Executive Director will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission, advocating for cooperatives, and strengthening relationships with members and stakeholders.

Executive Director (Cooperative Network – Madison, WI (Headquarters) or remote within Wisconsin or Minnesota)

Location: Madison, WI (Headquarters) or remote within Wisconsin or Minnesota

Salary range: $100,000 – $150,000 annually. Total compensation includes a performance-based bonus opportunity and competitive benefits package.

Join Us in Advancing the Cooperative Movement!

Are you a visionary leader passionate about the cooperative model? Do you thrive in fostering relationships, driving advocacy, and leading organizations toward meaningful impact? If so, Cooperative Network invites you to apply for the role of Executive Director.

Cooperative Network is the trusted voice for cooperatives in Wisconsin and Minnesota, championing the cooperative movement and providing vital resources to our diverse member organizations. As the Executive Director, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of our mission, advocating for cooperatives, and building strong connections with our members and stakeholders.

What You’ll Do

As the Executive Director, you’ll serve as the chief executive and report directly to the Cooperative Network Board of Directors. Your key areas of focus will include:

Member Relations

  • Grow and maintain Cooperative Network’s membership base.
  • Build meaningful relationships with cooperative members to understand their needs and priorities.
  • Act as the primary liaison, ensuring transparent communication and value-added services.
  • Organize member engagement activities like forums, conferences, and training programs.
  • Identify opportunities for collaboration and resource-sharing among members.

Legislative Advocacy

  • Represent Cooperative Network and its members at local, state, and federal levels.
  • Advocate for policies that support and advance the cooperative model.
  • Maintain strong relationships with policymakers, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders.
  • Monitor and communicate legislative developments impacting cooperatives.

Financial and Strategic Leadership

  • Increase Cooperative Network revenue opportunities.
  • Lead staff to execute the Cooperative Network’s strategic plan.
  • Oversee financial health, including budget development, monitoring, and reporting.
  • Identify funding opportunities to support organizational initiatives.
  • Provide visionary leadership to position Cooperative Network as a thought leader in the cooperative movement.

Board Relations

  • Serve as the primary contact for the Board of Directors.
  • Support governance policies and strategic initiatives alongside the Board.
  • Prepare and present reports to ensure informed decision-making.
  • Facilitate Board meetings, retreats, and training sessions.

Other Responsibilities

  • Perform other duties that align with and help accelerate Cooperative Network’s mission and goals.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public policy, nonprofit management, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • 7-10 years of leadership experience, preferably in nonprofit, cooperative, or government sectors.
  • Strong understanding of the cooperative model and commitment to its principles.
  • Proven track record in advocacy and legislative engagement.
  • Experience in financial management, strategic planning, and organizational leadership.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate with a Board of Directors.

Key Competencies

  • Visionary, transformational and strategic leadership.
  • Skilled relationship-builder with a collaborative approach.
  • Politically savvy, with a deep understanding of advocacy strategies.
  • Financially literate, with strong organizational and project management skills.

What You Can Expect

This position requires significant travel to engage with members, advocate at Wisconsin and Minnesota capitals, and participate in events promoting the cooperative movement.

Cooperative Network offers a supportive and mission-driven culture that values innovation, collaboration, and dedication to the cooperative principles.

How to Apply

Cooperative Network invites applications for the position of Executive Director and has selected Dairyland Power Cooperative to facilitate the search process. Ready to lead Cooperative Network into the future? Apply today to help strengthen and advance the cooperative movement! Early applications encouraged with first reviews beginning in mid-September.

Visit www.dairylandpower.com/careers to submit your application.

Cooperative Network is an equal opportunity employer.