Friends of Acadia (FOA) is a nationally respected nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and inspiring stewardship of Acadia National Park and its surrounding communities. As the official philanthropic partner to Acadia, FOA has set a national standard for conservation, advocacy, and volunteerism, leveraging private support to amplify federal funding and deliver measurable, lasting impact. The organization’s mission is to ensure Acadia’s natural beauty, ecological vitality, and cultural resources are sustained for the inspiration and enjoyment of current and future generations.
FOA is guided by deep principles of stewardship, advocacy, citizen engagement, collaboration, and leadership. The organization mobilizes donors, volunteers, and partners to address critical priorities such as climate change, visitor experience, and youth engagement. Through innovative programs, FOA supports invasive species management, habitat restoration, climate resilience, sustainable transportation, and stewardship initiatives that enrich the park experience while protecting its extraordinary resources.
The Vice President of Advancement is a key leadership role based in Bar Harbor, Maine, responsible for shaping and executing a comprehensive fundraising program. This includes major and planned giving, corporate and foundation support, capital and special campaigns, donor communications, and prospect development. Working closely with the President & CEO, Board, staff, and partners, the Vice President will strengthen donor engagement, align philanthropic priorities with the park’s evolving needs, and build the strategy and systems required for sustained growth. The role includes managing a portfolio of high-capacity prospects, developing clear benchmarks for success, and fostering a culture of collaboration and shared accountability across the organization.
Ideal candidates will bring at least 10 years of progressive advancement or development experience, including senior leadership roles, and a proven record of growing fundraising programs, securing major and planned gifts, and inspiring teams around a conservation mission. Strong communication, strategic planning, and team development skills are essential, as is a genuine passion for Acadia National Park and FOA’s mission. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, along with the opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the future of one of the nation’s most beloved national parks.
For best consideration, please submit a current resume and letter of introduction to Kittleman & Associates, LLC by August 23, 2026.
For more information about Friends of Acadia, visit https://friendsofacadia.org/.
Friends of Acadia - Vice President of Advancement Position Guide
Skills Required
- At least 10 years of progressive advancement or development experience, including senior leadership roles
- Proven record of growing fundraising programs and securing major and planned gifts
- Experience managing a portfolio of high-capacity prospects and developing clear benchmarks for success
- Strong communication, strategic planning, and team development skills
- Experience with corporate and foundation support, capital and special campaigns, and donor communications
- Genuine passion for Acadia National Park and FOA's conservation mission
What We Do
Kittleman & Associates is an executive search firm dedicated exclusively to nonprofit leadership. It helps nonprofit organizations identify and recruit CEOs and executive directors, combining customized search processes, analytics, sector expertise, and hands-on guidance from consultants with nonprofit leadership or board experience. The firm also advises clients on leadership transitions and succession, supporting organizations across a broad range of nonprofit sectors.
