Executive Director - Kishwaukee United Way

Who we are, what we do, and where we are located:

Kishwaukee United Way (“KUW”) is located in a thriving college town of DeKalb, home to Northern Illinois University. KUW's goal is to provide a better quality of life for the communities of service. KUW will do this by improving education, health, and economic mobility by making a difference for nearly 100,000 residents across urban, rural, and agricultural landscapes in DeKalb County. Working to ensure every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive. Guided by collaboration, compassion, and a commitment to measurable impact, by bringing together partners, volunteers, and donors to address the county’s most pressing challenges and create lasting change where it’s needed most. KUW is a part of a global leading non-profit organization. Apply today for this awesome and amazing opportunity!

About the position:

This is a perfect and unique sole leadership opportunity for someone looking to take ownership, build and shape an organization, with room for growth and impact. The ED will partner with the Board of Directors in the fulfillment of the organization’s mission. The ED is responsible for all administrative, fundraising, fund distribution operations, and stakeholder relations of the organization.

The successful Executive Director will focus on the following essential duties:

• Leadership – Develop, maintain, and implement a process by which KUW establishes strategic direction, conducts tactical and long-term planning, sets measurable goals, and evaluates the results. Responsible for advancing the mission and vision of KUW. Coordinates various standing and ad hoc committees and initiatives of KUW.
• Financial Management – Direct the financial operations of the organization. Ensure adherence to the organization’s budget and monitor fiscal expenditures. Prepare various financial and fundraising reports for the Board and committee meetings. Manage the organization’s annual audit process.
• Fundraising – Develop and implement year-round resource development strategies, including a campaign plan. Develop, implement, and maintain innovative resource development strategies, including, but not limited to, annual giving, business support, gifts in kind, major gifts, planned giving, and special events. Develop, maintain, and support appropriate training programs, materials, and systems for campaign volunteers.
• Fund Distribution – Develop and implement a plan to allocate available dollars in high-impact/outcome programs and to evaluate the results of those investments. Develop, implement, and maintain an agency program funding application, evaluation criteria, and fund distribution process.
• Agency Relations – Develop and maintain appropriate and inclusive partnerships with KUW-funded and potential agencies.
• Board & Volunteer Relations – Develop and enhance positive relationships and communication with existing and potential Board members and volunteers. Develop and support training and development programs and materials for Board members and volunteers. Attend and participate in all Board and committee meetings.
• Community Relations – Build and maintain appropriate and inclusive partnerships with civic organizations, community foundations, chamber of commerce, local governments, local media, and other health/human service organizations.
• Donor Relations – Develop and enhance positive relationships and communication with existing and potential donors. Create and implement appropriate recognition practices for individual and group donors.
• Marketing and Communications – Develop, implement, and maintain year-round marketing and communication strategies to promote broad support and understanding of KUW.
• Human Resource and Development – Lead and manage all KUW staff, including the recruitment, selection, and retention of the staff.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, a proven track record in the non-profit sector, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including public speaking.
• Ability to plan, organize, and facilitate meetings and presentations.
• Demonstrated thorough understanding of finance, including budget preparation and financial management.
• Ability to perform tasks without direct supervision, including excellent time management and workflow organization skills.
• Possess a strong working knowledge of Windows, Microsoft Office Suite, and QuickBooks, as well as social media platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
• Experience in grant writing is a plus.
• Ability to visit partner agencies, attend campaign kickoffs, and community events.
• Attend occasional weekend or evening functions, meetings, or special events.

This position operates primarily during standard business hours; however, flexibility is essential. The role requires availability for occasional evening and weekend events, meetings, and activities that support the organization's mission and community engagement efforts.

Compensation and Benefits:

The compensation package includes an annual base salary of $52,000-$60,000, plus performance bonuses based on successful fundraising outcomes and mission advancement. The final offer is determined by education, training, experience, and proven performance. In addition, the benefits package includes retirement (an IRA matching plan is offered after a 90-day introductory period), holidays and paid time off, and professional development opportunities. This role is a hybrid position, combining in-office and remote work. Relocation is not offered.

Application Process

To be considered for this position, applicants must submit a complete application package by uploading the following documents: a cover letter including salary requirements, and a resume. Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. Please continue to review our vacancies for other career opportunities. The position will remain open until it is filled. Thank you for your interest.

Projected Timeline for Recruitment (Flexible and Subject to Change)

Application Period: August-September

Prescreening Interviews: September

Panel Interviews: September-October

Start Date: October

Kishwaukee United Way is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.