Texas Deer Association (TDA)
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Board of Directors
Location: Texas (statewide travel required)
Position Overview
The Texas Deer Association (TDA) is seeking a full-time Executive Director to serve as the chief executive officer and primary public spokesperson for the organization. This role provides strategic leadership, legislative advocacy, operational oversight, and revenue development to advance TDA’s mission of promoting and protecting the Texas deer industry.
The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD), the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, lawmakers, industry partners, and TDA members.
Key Responsibilities
Legislative & Regulatory Affairs
- Serve as TDA’s primary representative before the Texas Legislature, TPWD, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission
- Monitor and respond to legislative and regulatory matters affecting the deer industry, including CWD policy, breeder permits, and wildlife regulations
- Build and maintain relationships with legislators, agency leadership, commissioners, and policy stakeholders
- Coordinate testimony, official comments, and advocacy efforts
- Develop and implement TDA’s legislative strategy and provide timely updates to members
Fundraising, Events & Sponsorships
- Lead planning and execution of TDA fundraising events, conventions, banquets, and auctions
- Identify, cultivate, and secure sponsors, donors, and corporate partners
- Develop new revenue opportunities and sponsorship programs in collaboration with the Board
- Oversee event budgets, vendor relationships, and donor recognition
Organizational Leadership & Management
- Provide strategic vision to strengthen TDA’s mission, membership, and financial sustainability
- Oversee daily operations, staff management, and organizational performance
- Develop and manage the annual budget in coordination with the Board Treasurer
- Prepare reports, forecasts, and recommendations for the Board
- Ensure compliance with bylaws, policies, and applicable regulations
Communications & Industry Relations
- Serve as the official spokesperson for TDA with media and industry audiences
- Oversee communications including newsletters, legislative alerts, social media, and marketing
- Maintain strong relationships with members, landowners, breeders, conservation groups, and industry partners
- Represent TDA at conferences, meetings, and statewide events
Qualifications
- Leadership experience in nonprofit management, government affairs, agriculture, wildlife, or a related field
- Strong understanding of Texas legislative processes, wildlife policy, and the deer industry
- Proven success in fundraising, sponsorship development, and event leadership
- Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to travel statewide and work extended hours during legislative sessions and events
- Bachelor’s degree preferred (public policy, agriculture, wildlife management, business, or related field)
Key Competencies
- Strategic planning and execution
- Legislative advocacy and political acumen
- Fundraising and revenue development
- Financial and operational management
- Public relations and stakeholder engagement
- Professionalism, accountability, and integrity
Compensation
Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a resume and brief cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the position to president@texasdeerassociation.com.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.