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Executive Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Greenwood Gardens

Executive Director

Short Hills, NJ

The Executive Director will provide visionary and strategic leadership for the organization's mission and ensure the implementation of effective strategic and facilities plans to support this mission.

United Soccer Coaches

Executive Director

New York, NY · On-site

Executive Sector: Collegiate Sports Internal Number: 7170782 Executive Director Downtown United Soccer Club New York, NY About Downtown United Soccer Club Founded in 1982, Downtown United Soccer Club ...

Bressler Amery & Ross

Executive Director

Florham Park, NJ · On-site

$300K - $400K/yr

Executive Director The Executive Director is a strategic leadership position that blends operational, strategic, and process-oriented responsibilities, ensuring the firm runs efficiently and ...

Prestige Scientific

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

We have an exciting opportunity for an Executive Director with our partner, a newly established healthcare policy think tank. This role offers a rare opportunity to step into a true institution ...

New

NY Tech Alliance

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

The Executive Director is responsible for all organization operations and activities, including strategic planning, financial management, organizational development, event planning and production ...

NY Tech Alliance

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

The Executive Director is responsible for all organization operations and activities, including strategic planning, financial management, organizational development, event planning and production ...

Magen David Yeshivah

Executive Director

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

Position Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) of Magen David Yeshivah is responsible for leadership and oversight of all strategic planning, operations, finance, board ...

City of New York

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

The Team The Executive Director oversees the day-to-day administration of the agency, works closely with the Chair to set and carry out agency priorities, and oversees the agency's regulatory ...

City of New York

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY

The Team The Executive Director oversees the day-to-day administration of the agency, works closely with the Chair to set and carry out agency priorities, and oversees the agency's regulatory ...

City of New York

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

The Team The Executive Director oversees the day-to-day administration of the agency, works closely with the Chair to set and carry out agency priorities, and oversees the agency's regulatory ...

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All JobsExecutive Director JobsExecutive Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Executive Director information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$37.2K

$91.6K

$168.7K

How much do executive director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive director in Rutherford, NJ is $91,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $119,300.00 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 Rutherford, NJ? The most popular types of Executive jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Executive Director jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Executive Director job openings:
Executive Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Director job openings in Rutherford, NJ 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 $91,564 per year, or $44 per hour.

Executive Director

Greenwood Gardens

Short Hills, NJ

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Greenwood Gardens (Greenwood) is a treasured public garden, formerly a private estate incorporated as a non-profit organization in 2003 that has been accessible to the public since 2013. Located in Short Hills, New Jersey, Greenwood is an enchanted hideaway, graced by terraced gardens, woodlands, meadows, grottoes, fountains, Arts and Crafts follies, and winding paths.


Named by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism to its 2025 list of the “One Dozen Must-Stroll Garden State Gardens,” Greenwood is at an exciting moment in its storied history. The recently completed restoration of its magnificent Cascade, a 110-year-old seven-tier fountain feature, is drawing record numbers of visitors who are eager to experience the restorative effect of the sight and sound of flowing water. At the same time, Greenwood is entering a critical new phase of growth focused on further developing its donor base, continuing to make improvements to the site, and identifying opportunities to ensure Greenwood’s continued financial independence and sustainability.


To further this positive momentum, Greenwood Gardens seeks an inspirational Executive Director to serve as its primary spokesperson, fundraiser, and advocate. The Executive Director will provide visionary and strategic leadership for the organization’s mission and ensure the implementation of effective strategic and facilities plans to support this mission. This creative leader will build on the organization’s strong history of conservation and environmental education to further the mission through the continual development of new strategies, community partners, and allies. Serving as the public face of the organization, the Executive Director must possess integrity, excellent outreach skills, and a broad appeal in order to retain and advance Greenwood’s favorable reputation in the community and beyond.


The Executive Director will report to the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees and be accountable to the entire Board of Trustees. S/he will lead a team of 11 full-time, one part-time, and six seasonal employees in development, finance, administration, public engagement, facilities, and marketing and communications. The successful candidate will possess a strong aesthetic sensibility aligned with Greenwood’s historic structures, ornaments, horticultural displays, and marketing identity. The Executive Director will collaborate closely with Greenwood’s Standing Committees to advance organizational goals and strengthen governance.


Greenwood Gardens has retained Freeman Philanthropic Services, LLC to assist in this important recruitment. Please send all confidential inquiries, applications, and nominations directly to FPS via email at GreenwoodGardens@glfreeman.com.

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