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Exec Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Executive Director

Craig, CO · On-site

$150 - $180/hr

Executive Director First Review: September 8, 2026 Salary Range: $150,000 to $180,000 The Yampa Valley Regional Transportation Authority in Craig, Colorado is seeking its first Executive Director to ...

Executive Director

San Diego, CA · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Executive Director Friends of the Children - San Diego San Diego, California The Moran Company is pleased to partner with Friends of the Children-San Diego to recruit the organization's first ...

Executive Director

Effingham, IL · On-site

$97.75 - $132.25/hr

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the Institute, leading a dedicated staff and reporting to a volunteer Board of Directors. The Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship seeks a ...

The Executive Director is entrusted with helping create the conditions in which individuals with developmental disabilities, families, employees, service providers, community partners, and future ...

The Executive Director is entrusted with helping create the conditions in which individuals with developmental disabilities, families, employees, service providers, community partners, and future ...

Executive Director

Belle Isle, FL · On-site

$170 - $200/hr

The Executive Director of the FVMA will be a results-driven, dynamic leader who connects deeply with members and continuously creates greater value for the association. The Executive Director is ...

Executive Director

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The next Executive Director will lead a highly respected, community-centered organization at an exciting moment in its evolution. Guided by the 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, the Executive Director will ...

Executive Director

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Legal Services Alabama seeks an Executive Director Legal Services Alabama's Executive Director, Guy Lescault, has announced his retirement at the end of 2026. LSA now seeks an experienced and ...

Showing results 21-40

Exec Director information

What does an executive director do?

An Executive Director is the senior leader responsible for overseeing the daily operations, strategic planning, and overall management of an organization or nonprofit. They work closely with the board of directors to set goals, manage staff, ensure financial stability, and represent the organization to stakeholders and the public. Executive Directors play a vital role in fundraising, policy development, and ensuring that the organization's mission is effectively carried out.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Director, you need strong leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and organizational expertise, often supported by an advanced degree in business, management, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, CRM systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and relationship-building skills help set successful Executive Directors apart. These abilities are vital for driving organizational success, ensuring operational efficiency, and fostering a positive and productive workplace culture.

What are some typical challenges executive directors face when leading a nonprofit organization?

Executive Directors in nonprofit organizations often encounter challenges such as balancing limited resources with program demands, managing diverse stakeholder expectations, and maintaining consistent fundraising efforts. They also need to foster a positive organizational culture, ensure compliance with regulations, and build strong relationships with the board of directors. Navigating these challenges requires strong leadership, adaptability, and excellent communication skills to keep the organization focused on its mission and long-term sustainability.

What is the difference between Exec Director vs Program Manager?

AspectExec DirectorProgram Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in business, nonprofit, or related field; advanced degrees preferredBachelor's degree in relevant field; certifications like PMP can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentExecutive offices, boardrooms, nonprofit or corporate settingsProject sites, office environments, client meetings
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, large corporations, associationsVarious industries including tech, healthcare, nonprofit
Primary FocusOverall organizational strategy, governance, fundraisingManaging specific projects, timelines, and deliverables

The main difference between an Exec Director and a Program Manager lies in scope and responsibilities. The Exec Director oversees the entire organization, focusing on strategy, governance, and high-level operations. In contrast, the Program Manager handles specific projects within the organization, ensuring successful execution. Both roles require leadership skills and relevant credentials, but their focus areas and impact levels differ significantly.

More about Exec Director jobs

What cities are hiring for Exec Director jobs?

Cities with the most Exec Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exec jobs?

The most popular types of Exec jobs are:

What states have the most Exec Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exec Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Exec Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Executive Director

Simpson Housing Services

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY


The Executive Director of Simpson Housing Services provides steady, values-driven leadership for the organization's mission, strategy, and long-term sustainability. In close partnership with the Board of Directors, this leader collaborates with a dedicated Senior Leadership Team on operations, finances, fundraising, and external relationships while leading strategic direction for the agency. The Executive Director serves as a visible and trusted presence in the community, building meaningful relationships with funders, partners, policymakers, and community members who share a commitment to Simpson's mission to house, support, and empower people impacted by homelessness. The Executive Director serves as a visible community leader and ambassador, advancing the organization's mission through strong external relationships and partnerships.


At a meaningful moment in its evolution, with Simpson's 45 year anniversary approaching next year, the Executive Director leads with clarity, emotional intelligence, and humility. The Executive Director must possess the cultural competency and leadership experience required to guide an organization striving to be anti-racist. This role calls for a relational leader who can hold complexity, nurture a strong organizational culture, and balance thoughtful strategy with day-to-day operational care guiding Simpson forward while staying grounded in dignity, partnership, and long-term impact.


REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.


Direct reports include:
Associate Director
CFO
Director of Advancement and Communications
Director of Equity and Human Resources
Director of Business Operations and Volunteer Engagement


DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS


Senior executive leadership experience in complex nonprofit or public-serving organizations, with responsibility for strategy, operations, fundraising, communications, building government partnerships, and overall organizational performance.


Deep knowledge of homelessness and housing stability systems or closely related social service environments, including policy, funding streams, and service delivery models.


Strong board partnership and governance experience working effectively with a Board of Directors on strategic planning, governance support, and shared accountability.


Comprehensive fundraising leadership with demonstrated success advancing multi-channel development strategies and stewarding high-level donor relationships.


Financial and operational acumen including budget oversight, fiscal management, and long-term organizational sustainability.


Executive team leadership and talent development with a proven ability to cultivate high-performing teams and foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.


Commitment to racial equity and social justice with experience embedding these values into organizational practice, culture, and decision-making.


Credible and authentic public communication with the ability to serve as a trusted external voice and advance clear, consistent storytelling aligned with Simpson's values and impact.


Emotional intelligence and relational leadership demonstrated through self-awareness, empathy, sound judgment, and strong relationship management.