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Executive Director Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a RN Executive Director Specialist - Hospice to join our leadership team. This role acts as the administrator on call and is responsible for the overall operation of assigned markets ...

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Executive Director information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$35.6K

$87.7K

$161.6K

How much do executive director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive director in Decatur, GA is $87,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $114,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What exactly does an executive director do?

An executive director is responsible for overseeing the overall operations and strategic direction of an organization, ensuring goals are met and policies are implemented. They often manage staff, develop budgets, and communicate with stakeholders, requiring strong leadership and management skills.

What are some common challenges faced by an Executive Director when balancing strategic leadership with day-to-day operations?

Executive Directors often face the challenge of balancing high-level strategic planning with the demands of overseeing daily operations. While setting long-term goals and ensuring organizational sustainability, they must also address immediate issues such as team management, resource allocation, and stakeholder communication. Effective delegation, time management, and maintaining open communication with both staff and the board are key to navigating these challenges successfully. Building a strong leadership team can also help distribute responsibilities and ensure smooth organizational functioning.

Is an executive director higher than VP?

In most organizations, an executive director is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing operations and strategic planning, often comparable to or slightly above a vice president (VP). The hierarchy varies by industry and company size, but generally, the executive director reports to the board or CEO and may have VPs reporting to them. In some organizations, VPs are considered higher, especially in corporate structures, while in non-profits, the executive director is typically the top executive.

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 development skills, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and significant managerial experience. Familiarity with budgeting software, CRM systems, and nonprofit or corporate governance frameworks is often required. Excellent communication, decision-making, and relationship-building abilities are crucial soft skills for inspiring teams and engaging stakeholders. These competencies are essential for driving organizational growth, ensuring operational efficiency, and achieving long-term mission success.

Is an executive director higher than CEO?

An executive director and a CEO are both senior leadership roles, but their hierarchy depends on the organization. In some nonprofits, the executive director is the top executive, while in corporations, the CEO is typically the highest-ranking officer. The specific responsibilities and authority vary based on the organization's structure and governance.

What is the difference between Executive Director vs Nonprofit Program Manager?

AspectExecutive DirectorNonprofit Program Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; advanced degrees preferredBachelor's degree typically required; relevant experience valued
Work EnvironmentOversees entire organization, strategic planningManages specific programs or projects within the organization
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in nonprofits, associations, foundationsCommon in nonprofit organizations, community services
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles, organizational oversightFocus on program management, project execution

The Executive Director holds a top leadership position, responsible for overall organizational strategy and governance. In contrast, a Nonprofit Program Manager focuses on managing specific programs or projects within the organization. While both roles require relevant experience and similar educational backgrounds, the Executive Director has broader responsibilities, including fundraising and stakeholder relations, whereas the Program Manager concentrates on program delivery and operational details.

What does an Executive Director do?

An Executive Director is the senior leader responsible for overseeing the operations and strategic direction of an organization, often in the nonprofit or public sector. Their duties include managing staff, developing policies, ensuring financial sustainability, and working with the board of directors to fulfill the organization's mission. Executive Directors also represent the organization to stakeholders, secure funding, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations. Their leadership is crucial for driving organizational growth and achieving long-term goals.

What do executive directors get paid?

Executive directors typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to over $150,000, depending on the organization size, location, and industry. Compensation often includes benefits such as bonuses, retirement plans, and health insurance, and requires strong leadership and management skills.
More about Executive Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Executive jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Executive jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Executive Director jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Executive Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Executive Director job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,692 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Associate Executive Director

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


YMCA Of Metro Atlanta rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

576th of 687 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we're looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Under the direction of the Vice President/Branch Executive Director, the Associate Executive Director conducts and administers facility functions. This position is primarily responsible for supervising the daily operations and organizational leadership for specific YMCA location(s) and for the successful achievement of association and branch strategic goals. This position does not have Board of Directors nor Why It Matters Campaign responsibilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

  • Responsible for the operation of a Y location supporting the strategic direction of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta while modeling the behavioral values established by the Association.
  • Lead member involvement and relationship building strategies to increase participation, enrollment, and volunteerism.
  • Represent and promote the Y in the local community by developing strategic, positive working and collaborative relationships with other organizations, businesses, and governmental entities.
  • Develop, grow, and direct high quality, innovative, relationship-based member engagement strategies which meet the needs of our members and community.
  • Assist in developing and controlling branch budgets and is responsible for maintaining budget goals.
  • Provide training programs for new and current personnel and carry primary responsibility for all departmental staff development.
  • Develop, maintain, and prepare reports for staff, committees,
  • Responsible for approval of expenses, emergency decisions, and issues which require immediate attention.
  • Lead the strategic positioning of the branch to meet the goals of the Metro-wide strategic plan.
  • Effectively supervise and develop branch staff and volunteers and build an exceptional culture to motivate them to achieve their personal and professional goals.
  • Responsible for facility management and maintenance to ensure high quality facilities, grounds, and equipment.
  • Maintain required safety and training certifications, Emergency Action Plans, SDS Manuals, etc.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree and 4+ years progressive departmental management experienceor 6+ years of progressive departmental management experience
  • 2+ direct people management experience
  • Strong employee and volunteer development experience
  • Experience managing a budget
  • Skills and ability in program development and delivery, human resources management, financial management, facility management, and in coaching and leading staff, members, and volunteers.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong customer service skills and personal commitment to service and hospitality
  • Hands on experience with utilizing data to make informed decisions
  • Must be able to pass and maintain CPR certification within 30 days of employment and maintain throughout employment

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • A bachelor's degree is in education, health sciences, community development or related field
  • Prior budget responsibilities
  • 2+ years of experience with the YMCA or closely related non-profit
  • 4+ years supervisory experience

Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc.

Employment Requirement:

  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy.

  • Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship.

This job posting is subject to change at any time.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we're looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.


Location:

East Lake Family YMCA

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