Job Title: Director of Trail Development - Capital Trail Extension

Location: Hybrid (Williamsburg, VA and Richmond, VA)

Reports To: Executive Director

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation (VCTF) is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Director of Trail Development to lead the effort to extend the Capital Trail from James City County through the City of Williamsburg. This public-facing role will serve as the primary liaison for the extension, responsible for building support, coordinating stakeholders, advocating for the project, and helping to secure necessary funding.

Key Responsibilities

1. Planning & Coordination

Lead the overall effort to extend the Capital Trail from planning through implementation.

Develop and manage a comprehensive work plan with clear milestones, timelines, and deliverables.

Coordinate with local governments and other partners to align technical and design planning with project goals.

Monitor project progress and provide regular updates to VCTF leadership and stakeholders.

Attend and/or lead public meetings related to trail planning.

2. Stakeholder Engagement

Serve as the primary liaison and spokesperson for the Capital Trail Extension.

Build and maintain strong relationships with local and state officials, public agencies, tourism partners, landowners, and community leaders.

Facilitate a multi-jurisdictional working group and internal advisory committee to ensure alignment and accountability.

Represent the project at public meetings, community events, and in the media.

3. Advocacy & Public Outreach

Develop and implement a public engagement plan to inform and involve residents, businesses, and community organizations.

Create opportunities for public input and ensure the project reflects local needs and values, as needed.

Collaborate with VCTF staff to produce clear, compelling messaging and visuals.

Build grassroots support through outreach campaigns, events, presentations, and storytelling.

4. Fundraising & Resource Development

Support the execution of a comprehensive funding strategy in partnership with the Executive Director.

Assist in raising private and philanthropic funds to support key project needs such as grant match requirements, trail amenities, and early-phase planning.

5. Other

May assist with VCTF events and programs, as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Executive Director

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, community development, urban planning, trail development, or related fields - preferably with multi-jurisdictional infrastructure projects.

Skills & Competencies

Strong understanding of community engagement, trail development, and land use planning.

Familiarity with trail planning or transportation infrastructure.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders.

Comfortable working with government agencies, civic groups, donors, and the general public.

Experience with fundraising, grant writing, and infrastructure funding is a plus.

Personal Attributes

Passion for trails, outdoor recreation, and community connectivity.

Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Flexibility to navigate complex political environments and multi-jurisdictional dynamics.

Highly self-motivated, organized, and collaborative.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, hybrid position with an expected in-person presence in both VCTF’s Richmond headquarters and the project area in Williamsburg. The Director of Trail Development will primarily work from Williamsburg (approximately 3 days/week) at an office, with regular travel to Richmond for internal meetings and team collaboration.

Occasional evening and weekend commitments for community meetings or events.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $75,000-$95,000, commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and a flexible work environment.