BECKLEY, W.Va. — The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority has officially launched its search for a new Executive Director, posting qualifications and application details on its website.
Candidates can review the position description at nrgrda.org/now-hiring-nrgrda-executive-director/ and are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to contact@nrgrda.org.
NRGRDA Board Chairperson Allison Rae Taylor said the next Executive Director will play a critical role in shaping the future of the four‑county region.
“The New River Gorge region is growing as people realize it offers a high quality of life in a fantastically beautiful setting with a low cost of living,” Taylor said. “The successful candidate has an opportunity to make a lasting impact by leading outreach to businesses and individuals who want to be part of its future.”
The organization is seeking a visionary and experienced leader to oversee strategic planning, organizational management, regional economic advancement, partnership development, and financial stewardship across Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties. The role requires strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and a willingness to take initiative in serving businesses, local governments, and communities.
Primary responsibilities include developing strategic vision, pursuing economic development opportunities, representing NRGRDA at all levels of government, cultivating relationships with public and private partners, leading infrastructure and workforce initiatives, supporting catalytic projects, managing staff and contractors, ensuring regulatory compliance, and securing federal, state, philanthropic, and private funding.
Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in economic development, business, public administration, planning, finance, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred. Candidates should have progressively responsible leadership experience in economic or community development, business development, nonprofit management, or public administration.
NRGRDA Board Member and House Committee Chair Ted Kula is leading the search. “The NRGRDA board works closely with the Executive Director to ensure the priorities for each of the four member counties are met. We are excited for this next chapter,” Kula said.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with preference given to submissions received by August 31. The board hopes to fill the position by September 30, 2026.
Residents should confirm details with NRGRDA’s official website or trusted sources.
