Executive Director

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of the organization. This role involves leading the organization to achieve its mission and goals by overseeing programs, staff, and volunteers, driving strategic planning, fostering relationships with key stakeholders, and managing performance and outcomes. The Executive Director ensures the organization’s long-term sustainability and growth, through effective fundraising, community engagement, advocacy efforts, and team leadership.

Reports to: Board of Directors

Located in: Hartsville, SC

Areas of Responsibility

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development

• Provides visionary leadership to guide the organization in fulfilling its mission and achieving strategic goals.
• Leads the development and implementation of the organization’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment across all programs and initiatives.
• Works with Program Director to oversee daily operations, including program management, staff supervision, and volunteer coordination, fostering a positive and inclusive organizational culture.
• Identifies and pursues opportunities for growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
• Works with Program Director to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and initiatives to ensure ongoing impact and success.
• Oversees the recruitment, hiring, and professional development of staff, promoting a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Collaborates with founder and program lead to continue the development and delivery of high-quality programs and services, utilizing data and feedback mechanisms to drive improvement and measure impact.
• Cultivates an inclusive and supportive environment where adolescents and staff feel valued, respected, and a true sense of belonging.

Fundraising, Financial Management & Accountability

• Develops and executes comprehensive fundraising strategies, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and special events, to secure sustainable revenue streams.
• Oversees sound financial management practices, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, while ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial matters.
• Implements robust processes for financial decision-making and stewardship of resources to maximize impact and operational efficiency.
• Ensures compliance with employment laws, organizational policies, and best practices in human resources management.

Community Engagement & Visibility

• Builds and nurtures strong relationships with community partners, government agencies, donors, and other key stakeholders to advance the organization’s mission.
• Serves as the public face of the organization, representing it at public events, meetings, and media engagements to elevate its profile.
• Advocates for the organization’s mission and priorities at local, state, and regional levels, influencing policy and building support.
• Amplifies and builds brand through development of a marketing plan and strategy.

Board Relations & Governance

• Partners with the Board of Directors to develop and implement organizational policies, priorities, and governance procedures including the continued growth of finance and development committees.
• Provides the board with regular updates on progress, achievements, and challenges to enable informed decision-making.
• Supports Board development, engagement, and succession planning to strengthen organizational leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of senior management experience within nonprofit organizations, with expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and financial management.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse team of staff and volunteers, while fostering collaboration and engagement.
• Strong understanding of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively engage and represent the organization to all stakeholders.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, including grant writing, donor relations, and event planning.
• Experience building and maintaining relationships with community partners, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Commitment to operating with the highest ethical standards and ensuring transparency across all aspects of organizational operations.