Adirondack Roots is a housing organization serving the rural Adirondacks. It provides vital assistance to people in the North Country who are seeking to find or hold on to safe, secure homes. It has an annual operating budget between $1.5M – $2M, 16 staff members, and is governed by a highly committed Board of Trustees. Since 1978, Adirondack Roots has helped thousands of people in the eastern Adirondacks establish lasting homes and communities.
The Opportunity:
Adirondack Roots is a proud member of the NeighborWorks America network, connecting the organization to national resources, best practices, and a broader community of housing leaders.
This is a rare opportunity for a leader seeking their next purpose-driven chapter. Adirondack Roots is at an inflection point – grounded in decades of success, yet positioned for meaningful expansion in both reach and influence.
The next Executive Director will build on a strong foundation while shaping a future where access to housing serves as a bridge to thriving communities across the Adirondacks.
We are seeking a leader who is energized by both challenge and possibility; someone who understands that in rural communities, leadership is deeply personal and impact is immediately visible. This individual will bring the ability to navigate complexity while remaining grounded in mission, inspire a committed team, and engage a broad network of stakeholders with authenticity and conviction. For nonprofit leaders drawn to the Adirondack region and its unique sense of place, this role offers a compelling blend of professional growth and meaningful impact.
The ideal candidate will bring senior leadership experience in nonprofit, housing, community development, or a related field, along with the ability to guide a complex, mission-driven organization. A strong understanding of financial management in publicly funded environments is essential, including familiarity with federal and state housing programs, grant compliance, and restricted funding structures.
The Executive Director should have working knowledge of grant writing and administration, providing strategic oversight of funding efforts and ensuring effective management of grant resources. This role requires confidence in interpreting financial information, partnering closely with finance staff and the Board, and ensuring that financial decisions support both programmatic priorities and long-term sustainability. A bachelor’s degree is required, with an advanced degree preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and senior-level leadership experience.
Please refer to the Position Details linked above for a comprehensive overview of the Executive Director’s areas of responsibility and position qualifications.
Location: This is an in-person role in Elizabethtown, NY (Eastern Adirondacks)
DRiWaterstone is proud to lead this search on behalf of Adirondack Roots.
