About Friends of the Rail Park
Friends of the Rail Park (FRP) is a 501(c)3 organization that drives the vision behind the transformation of historic rail lines that traverse Philadelphia into a 3.1 mile linear park that will connect 10 adjoining neighborhoods, cultural institutions, and Fairmount Park. The park has three distinct sections – the Viaduct, the Cut and Tunnel – which reflect the history of the city’s development and rail transportation’s role in it. Phase I of the park, an elevated quarter mile, opened in June 2018 as the only public greenspace in the Callowhill/Chinatown North neighborhood. As the supporting nonprofit organization, FRP leads the conversation about the Rail Park through engaging Philadelphia communities, producing programming, advocacy work, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the park. FRP works closely with Center City District and Parks & Recreation as the key partners stewarding the Rail Park.
Overview of Executive Director Position
FRP is seeking an Executive Director to work closely with an active Board of Directors, Community Engagement and Programs Manager, government officials, communities, and partners to advance FRP’s mission and to secure public support and financial resources that will enable FRP to lead the Rail Park’s design process and programmatic agenda.
Summary of Ideal Candidate
A dynamic and experienced professional with a history of accomplishment in the nonprofit or public sectors that combines fundraising, financial and operational management, external relationship advancement and/or government relations , community engagement, public advocacy, andboard development and relations. Being adept at navigating the political and philanthropic landscape of Philadelphia is a must as is a commitment to values of race, equity, and inclusion and a demonstrated interest and engagement in parks and public spaces. Must be entrepreneurial in nature and comfortable working in a start-up environment.