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C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 1 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 


Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer 
 
 
 

The Opportunity 
 
United Way of Marathon County is seeking a high energy and compassionate individual to make a 
difference and join a progressive team that is dedicated to achieve ambitious community and 
organization-wide goals. The organization is highly successful and regarded as a leader in supporting 
the needs of our community. The success is attributed to strong staff and volunteer leadership and a 
history of program excellence, innovation, and collaboration to advance the mission and goals of the 
organization. 
 
The United Way of Marathon County has a total budget of $3.7 million and includes a staff of 17. It 
operates an eight county 211 call center, promotes volunteer engagement, maintains the Community 
Closet, and spearheads the Marathon County Hunger Coalition and Housing Taskforce. Roughly 
$900,000 of the revenue is raised outside of the annual campaign. The United Way also has an 
endowment that is maintained at the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin. 
 
To position itself for the future, United Way of Marathon County conducts regular strategic planning 
processes to set strategy and direction. In 2022 our organization elected to change our Mission to 
“Uniting to Thrive” with our Bold Goal of Lifting 10,000 Community Members to Financial Stability by 
2033. The organization is focused on impacting our ALICE population, convening the community 
around common goals, investing in best practices and engaging donors and stakeholders in its work. 
Examples of progress and accomplishments include: 

 • As of March 2025, we have achieved helping 4,443 community members to reach financial 
stability. 

 • The Community Closet served 1,550 unique households since re-opening in July 2023. 

 • Along with our funded partners we have served 16,288 community members since we 
changed our Mission and referred 7,289 members to other services in the community. 

 • The 211 Call Center is accredited and receives more than twice the national average number 
of calls as a % of population. 

 • Dedicated volunteers contribute approximately 7,400 hours in support of United Way each 
year, demonstrating a strong commitment to community engagement. 

 
This profile is based on the direction set in the 2022 Strategic Plan and further conversations about 
our progress and challenges. 
 


 C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 2 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 

The Organization 
 

Mission: Uniting to Thrive! 
 

Bold Goal: Lifting 10,000 Community Members to Financial Stability by 2033. 
 
Values: United Way of Marathon County believes in: 

 • Respecting and showing compassion for all people. 

 • Providing excellence in customer service. 

 • Engaging volunteers that reflect the county’s diversity and expands our capacity to address 
our mission. 

 • Being a great partner to create positive community change. 

 • Embracing change to be a relevant and visionary leader. 

 • Pursuing growth through evaluation, continuous improvement, and learning. 

 • Communicating often and clearly with different messages appropriate to our various 
stakeholders to build relationships and increase understanding. 

 • Having the highest standards of accountability, integrity, transparency, and ethics. 

 • Measuring and reporting impact results that relate to our community agenda. 
 

The strategic planning process recognized that there are numerous institutional initiatives. 
 They are: 

1. Evaluator of Community Needs: With the community, collect and analyze data and input to 
collectively set priorities and monitor results. (LIFE and ALICE reports) 

2. A single-issue focus. 
3. Grow and diversify revenue to serve our community. 
4. Engage and motivate our community through communications to emphasize the relevance 

and impart of our work. 
5. Deliver outstanding service to ensure every community member can be stable, by Uniting to 

Thrive. 
 

United Way Is the organization leader for these coalitions: 
 • Marathon County Hunger Coalition 

 • Housing Taskforce 

 • Marathon County Early Years Coalition 

 • United Way Partnership for Youth 
 

Key Opportunities and Challenges for the next CEO: 
 
Be a leader in innovation, strategy implementation and a reputation for delivering 
value. The Board is actively engaged in setting direction and overseeing the performance of United 
Way to ensure it grows and stays relevant to make an impact in the community. The challenge for the 
future is to sustain this momentum and reputation for being a leader and delivering on expectations. 

 
Grow financial and other resources. Fundraising growth is a challenge and relies on expanding 
effective strategies and deepening individual relationships especially with leadership donors, and 
corporate and local foundation leaders. No single strategy exists to grow both traditional and non-
traditional revenue. We operate in an increasingly competitive environment for growing resources. 
The key to future success will be to tap into connecting people who want to make a difference and 
care about their community with United Way. Increased community engagement and leadership 
giving groups to help United Way connect to more individuals and help to increase donor retention. 


 C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 3 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 

United Way story is difficult to understand and share in a short concise way, yet critical for attracting 
and expanding the donor base. Utilizing technology and social media to connect and communicate 
will be an ongoing opportunity as will segmenting our audiences and our message along with the 
approaches used. 
 

Show measurable results for the collaborations and investments of United Way. The 
organization understands its unique value in aligning community resources to create positive change 
and that no one organization can impact these issues alone. Collaborative partnerships are required 
which include public, private and non-profit organizations who are motivated to work together on 
improving community around common goals. People are coming together, and United Way is seeing 
some success with the coalitions. The opportunity is to continue to assist in skillfully supporting and 
driving focused work plans that help set measurable results and make progress on the issue. 
 

Excel at governance and operations and retain and attract top staff and volunteer 
talent. United Way has an active and engaged Board of Directors and committees. Bringing the right 
people together with the support they need is critical to success. One of the top attributes of this 
United Way is the exceptional reputation and dedication of volunteers and staff for delivering quality 
services and support. The opportunity for United Way is to retain and develop staff and increase 
volunteerism, resulting in a greater impact on our key areas of focus. 
 

Continue the Visionary Leadership. This position’s responsibility is to be constantly and 
proactively envisioning where we are going, then prepare and present those ideas to the Board. The 
Executive Director needs to lead us to achieve our current bold goal but also have reasoned sense for 
what our next bold goal might be based on the LIFE and ALICE reports, relationships with our 
partners, staff, and donors. 


 C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 4 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 

The Job Description 
 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: 
 
The CEO is the leader of the organization, executing a framework of community impact 
towards the organization’s Bold Goal, fostering collaboration between the Board of Directors, 
community leaders, partner organizations, volunteers, and staff by: 
 

 • Supporting the Board of Directors and its Committees in recruitment and training and in the 
development of policies, procedures, budgets, and programs that fulfill the mission of United 
Way of Marathon County. 
 

 • Ensuring the Board is engaged in regular strategic planning discussions or processes to 
identify needed changes in strategy, governance, and direction for the long-term health of the 
organization. 
 

 • Facilitating the process which brings community leaders together to provide coordinated 
evaluation, planning, assessment, and response to the community's needs. 
 

 • Serving as the chief spokesperson to inspire and grow the commitment of others to support 
United Way of Marathon County, championing the organizations mission, vision, programs, 
and services. 
 

 • Dedicating time to identifying and involving a diverse group of volunteers to assist in carrying 
out the work of United Way and who serve as ambassadors in the community. 
 

 • Hiring, inspiring, aligning and leading a high performing team with focused efforts on 
succession and capacity building. 
 

 • Developing a culture of action and outcomes by facilitating cooperation and teamwork, 
supporting constructive resolution of conflicts, and providing opportunities to generate and 
assess innovative ideas. 
 

 • Actively engaging in resource development planning and execution, including: 
o Developing diverse funding sources through a clear resource development strategy. 
o Growing individual and corporate giving. 
o Connecting to individuals and organizations for planned or major gifts. 
o Seeking donors outside the workplace in new ways that engages and connects them to 

United Way. 
 

 • Developing relationships with government organizations, community agencies and other 
groups to work collaboratively to implement best practices and partnerships that lead to the 
achievement of the Bold Goal. Setting measures, evaluating progress, and adjusting strategies 
as needed to achieve success. 
 

 • Managing an efficient and effective operation and structure guided by strong best practice 
policies that ensure good data management practices, fiscal accountability, transparency, and 
appropriate use of resources. 
 

 • Actively seek and nurture new relationships with diverse range of organizations and individuals 
to increase United Way’s knowledge of community. 


 C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 5 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 


 • Ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and quality of data that is collected and reported by the 
organization, especially as it related to the Boal Goal. 
 

 • Staying connected to state, regional, and national United Way efforts that result in professional 
contacts and brings knowledge, ideas, and information back to our community to assist in 
implementing ongoing continuous improvement practices. 
 
 

Experience and Attributes: 
 

 • Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills in achieving results. Experience can include 
work in a non-profit, for-profit, or government organization. 
 

 • Personable and a good listener who is able to build connections with others easily. 
 

 • Experience managing and leading a staff that work together as a team. 
 

 • Record of success in providing operational and financial oversight to meet the multiple needs 
of an organization. 
 

 • Demonstrated success in securing gifts and leading a fundraising campaign. 
 

 • Ability to facilitate a group process of decision making that invites multiple perspectives. 
 

 • Have a track record of working with groups such as a board, staff, agency partners, elected 
officials, or the larger community. 
 

 • Acts with integrity and strong ethics to foster trust at all levels. 
 

 • Ability to communicate effectively in various settings, displaying clarity, confidence, and 
passion. 
 

 • A leader who is both visible and approachable; and portrays enthusiasm and a strong work 
ethic. 
 

 • Skillful at leading and “being led” by board -- accepting board direction and group decisions. 
 

 • Has shown willingness to innovate, seek change and take risks. 
 

 • Sincere and passionate about the mission of United Way. 
 

The Position: 
Hiring range: $83,000 – $130,000 
Moving expenses: Negotiable 
Questions and contact information sent to: <a href="mailto:mbeese@unitedwaymc.org" target="_blank">mbeese@unitedwaymc.org</a> 


The Requirements 
 • Bachelor’s degree required, graduate degree preferred. 


 C E O P r o f i l e P a g e | 6 


United Way of Marathon County 705 × S. 24th Avenue, Suite 400B × Wausau, WI 54403 848-2927(715) × 

 • 5 years or more of progressively responsible experience in the leadership and management of 
an organization 

 • Experience in implementing traditional and innovative resource development strategies. 

 • Demonstrated and proven history of dedicated commitment to community by involvement in 
roles on a committee or board member of community organization. 

 • Prefer prior experience working in or with a non-profit organization of comparable size and 
similar mission. United Way experience is desirable but not required. 

 • Knowledge of non-profits and human services agencies and their role in the community. 
 

How to Apply: 
The United Way of Marathon County Board has appointed a search committee. 
 
Qualified individuals interested in being considered for the position are invited to apply by submitting a 
cover letter and resume electronically with salary expectations. 
 
Inquiries can be submitted to <a href="mailto:mbeese@unitedwaymc.org" target="_blank">mbeese@unitedwaymc.org</a> and someone from the committee will 
contact you. 
 

Job Location 
 
Marathon County offers an abundance of diversity in culture, recreation, natural beauty, seasons, 
economic activity, and residential options. With a full complement of the four seasons, you will find 
recreational opportunities for skiing (downhill and cross country), fishing, boating, snowmobiling, 
biking, hiking, and kayaking to name a few. Many would consider us an outdoor focused culture in 
Central Wisconsin. We host world class kayaking competitions, Badger State Olympic style winter 
games to name a few. Granite Peak in the center of our community is a burst with color in the fall and 
bustling with out-of-state visitors and locals during the downhill ski season. Our arts community is 
second to none. The Grand Theater offers a venue of entertainment that one would expect to find only 
in larger metropolitan areas. If an artistic venue is more to your liking, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art 
Museum is a must see, especially the internationally renowned Birds in Art annual exhibit. Throughout 
the county our communities offer a variety of farmers’ markets, ethnic festivals, and fairs. 
 
Marathon County offers a variety of residential options and employment as it does in ethnicity, 
recreation, natural beauty, and culture. Our metropolitan area consists of several communities 
centrally located at the intersections of I-39/US 51 and Hwy 29. The Wausau metro area serves as 
the health care, retail and professional services hub for Central Wisconsin that also extends to the 
Michigan border in northern Wisconsin. Our regional airport is easily accessible to the business or 
vacation traveler. 
 
Our economy is comprised of a strong health care industry, professional services, manufacturing, 
agri-business, and a strong commitment to entrepreneurship. Many of these organizations have a 
national and global footprint. Whether you are looking for a metropolitan setting or the benefits of rural 
small town living it can be found in Marathon County. 
 
A great way to learn more about the quality of life and the key leadership role that United Way plays in 
the community is best seen in the LIFE Report. The broad community comes together to compile 
information and data to evaluate strengths and weaknesses and identify priorities for action. This 
process has been led by United Way every other year for the past 25 years. The report is available at 

this link: Marathon County Pulse. 

<a href="https://www.marathoncountypulse.org/" target="_blank">https://www.marathoncountypulse.org/</a>

UNITED WAY OF MARATHON COUNTY INC

Executive Director\Chief Executive Officer

Title: President&nbsp;Job Type: Full Time, Exempt&nbsp;Reports to: Board of Directors&nbsp;Expected Start Date: August 4, 2025&nbsp;About United Way of Alamance County:&nbsp;For more than 95 years, we have partnered with local agencies to co-create solutions to meet people’s most pressing needs. From strengthening local resilience and encouraging civic engagement to advancing financial security and stable housing, we are working towards a future where every person can reach their full potential. We take a comprehensive approach, actively listening and responding, to help those that call our county home by mobilizing the right resources at the right time to navigate current challenges and build a better tomorrow.&nbsp;Position Summary:&nbsp;The President of United Way of Alamance County provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight to advance the organization’s mission. This position leads fundraising initiatives, manages three staff members, oversees program development, fosters board engagement, and ensures organizational sustainability, all while embodying the values and founding spirit of United Way to create lasting positive change throughout Alamance County. The President must build trust in the United Way brand and its relevance in the community, have a high level of expertise in nonprofit management, a thorough understanding of organizational dynamics, and the ability to define and deliver meaningful, measurable impact. Being a mission-driven, collaborative, innovative, equity-minded leader that can leverage relationships, develop intentional partnerships, and build networks is essential for success in this role.&nbsp;Key Functions:&nbsp;Organizational Management<ul><li>Establish and maintain best practices across all organizational functions including strategic planning and decision making, financial management, program design and evaluation, and operational efficiency</li><li>Partner with Board of Directors and staff to develop, deploy, and monitor organization’s strategic plan and annual goals with measurable outcomes</li><li>Serve as the primary brand ambassador and spokesperson, community convener, strategic partner, and thought leader across multiple sectors</li><li>Ensure organizational compliance with industry best practices, United Way Worldwide membership certifications, local and federal regulatory requirements to maintain ethical standards and operational excellence</li></ul>Fundraising &amp; Financial Management<ul><li>Create and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy with specific revenue goals, including workplace giving, individual giving, major gifts, grants, and special events</li><li>Lead revenue diversification efforts to achieve fundraising goals using knowledge of philanthropic landscape and fundraising best practices</li><li>Provide strategic financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and fiscal oversight to ensure organizational sustainability</li><li>Promote accountability and integrity in financial stewardship to build trust with stakeholders and sustain long-term fiscal health</li><li>Program Development</li><li>Collaborate with staff to design, implement, and evaluate new and existing programs that align with the organization’s mission and address community needs</li><li>Develop innovative, impactful initiatives that drive measurable outcomes and promote positive change</li><li>Oversee continuous improvement of program strategies to enhance effectiveness, scalability, and community engagement</li><li>Ensure programs comply with funding requirements while fostering partnerships to maximize reach and impact</li></ul>Staff &amp; Board Development<ul><li>&nbsp;Lead comprehensive human resource initiatives, including annual performance evaluations, staff succession planning and compensation analysis, and ongoing professional development for all staff</li><li>&nbsp;Cultivate a collaborative, high-performing team culture by encouraging open communication, mutual respect, and shared accountability</li><li>Serve as an orientation leader for new Board members and staff, ensuring effective onboarding and engagement</li><li>Support board development initiatives and strategic governance practices</li></ul>Required Skills &amp; Characteristics:<ul><li>Ability to envision the future, establish strategic goals, and develop comprehensive plans to achieve them while balancing both the big-picture perspective and attention to detail</li><li>Exhibit servant leadership through authentic, approachable, and transparent communication practices</li><li>Ability to influence and inspire existing and new business partners, donors, and community leaders towards common goals</li><li>Demonstrate resilience by overcoming obstacles and maintaining steady focus to ensure continued organizational progress</li><li>Possess strong financial expertise with proven experience in budget management, financial oversight, and ensuring fiscal accountability</li><li>Ability to effectively navigate uncertain or unclear situations by adapting quickly to changing circumstances, making informed decisions, and maintaining organizational stability</li><li>Willingness to make bold decisions and take calculated risks to drive the organization’s growth</li><li>and advancement</li><li>Strong dedication to researching, advocating for, and developing solutions addressing the challenges impacting Alamance County</li></ul>Qualifications:<ul><li>Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field preferred</li><li>Minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit, community development, or social impact organizations</li><li>Demonstrated success managing annual budgets of $1M+ and leading fundraising initiatives</li><li>Proven track record of building and maintaining strategic partnerships across multiple sectors and experience working with boards of directors, community stakeholders, and elected officials</li><li>Lived or worked in Alamance County to demonstrate a deep understanding of the community’s unique needs or knowledge of the inner workings of the United Way network is preferred&nbsp;</li></ul>Compensation, Benefits, and Working Conditions:<ul><li>Competitive salary range between $75,000-$80,000 annually, commensurate with experience Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, paid time off, and retirement plan with organizational match after 1 year of employment</li><li>Professional development opportunities including training, continuing education, conference attendance, memberships within local networks, United Way of North Carolina, and United Way Worldwide</li><li>Business hours conclude at 3pm on Fridays and the office is closed on Fridays during the summer months, June through August, to accommodate for occasional evening and weekend commitments throughout the year</li><li>Significant presence in our office in Downtown Burlington is required, with flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance and networking within the local community</li></ul>Application Process:&nbsp;To apply please submit the following to Patrick Noltemeyer, Board Chair, at <a href="mailto:info@uwalamance.org" target="_blank">info@uwalamance.org</a> by June 30, 2025:<ul><li>Current resume and cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications for this position</li><li>Writing sample (2-3 pages) addressing your vision for United Way’s impact in Alamance County</li><li>Three professional references including name, relationship, phone number, and email address</li></ul>Qualified candidates will be invited to further discuss this position in more detail with a representative from the search committee and can expect a three round interview process with the search committee, staff members, and the full board of directors.&nbsp;United Way of Alamance County is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences who meet the required qualifications.

Office

United Way of Alamance County

President

About the United Way of Greater Knoxville For more than a century, United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) has stood as a pillar of hope and innovation in East Tennessee. Today, we are a catalyst for systems-level change—convening stakeholders across sectors, championing community-driven solutions, and investing in the most promising strategies to improve lives and strengthen neighborhoods. Every year, UWGK mobilizes thousands of donors, volunteers, and partners in service of a bold vision: a community where every person can thrive. &nbsp;&nbsp; We are rooted in a belief that real change only happens when people come together. That’s why UWGK serves as both strategist and steward—connecting community needs with the resources, insights, and partnerships to address them. From increasing access to affordable childcare and nutritious food to fostering financial stability and educational opportunity, we drive results that matter. &nbsp;&nbsp; In 2024 alone, UWGK mobilized $8.5 million in support from over 4,500 individual and workplace donors and nearly 220 corporate partners to serve 655,482 individuals and families across the region. Through flagship initiatives like the East Tennessee Collaborative and Community Schools, we’re not just addressing symptoms—we’re tackling root causes of inequity with long-term strategies grounded in dignity, equity, and empowerment. &nbsp;&nbsp; Our approach is bold and evolving. We’re a lab for social innovation—piloting and scaling high-impact programs, reimagining nonprofit partnerships, and ensuring local organizations have the tools and trust they need to succeed. This includes initiatives like micro-centers for childcare access, afterschool tutoring networks, and unrestricted funding to help nonprofits strengthen their infrastructure and expand their reach. &nbsp;&nbsp; Above all, United Way of Greater Knoxville is about possibility. Whether helping a parent navigate their journey to financial independence, partnering with schools to close achievement gaps, or building healthier food systems with community voices at the center, UWGK exists to ensure that all of Knoxville’s residents—regardless of their background or circumstance—have the opportunity to build a better future. The Opportunity This is a defining moment for both the United Way of Greater Knoxville and the region it serves. The next Chief Executive Officer will step into a mission-driven organization with a bold vision, a dynamic team, and strong momentum—ready to deepen its impact, expand its reach, and reimagine what is possible for the people of Knox County. &nbsp;&nbsp; United Way of Greater Knoxville has earned a reputation as an innovator and trusted convener. The organization’s recent evolution reflects a deep commitment to equity, collaboration, and systems-level change. From redesigning how services are delivered in schools to championing new models of economic mobility, UWGK is doing more than responding to needs—it is proactively shaping the future of the community. &nbsp;&nbsp; The CEO will lead this charge, amplifying the voice and visibility of UWGK while steering its strategic and financial direction. They will be supported by a dedicated and capable team, a deeply engaged Board of Directors, and an extensive network of philanthropic, nonprofit, government, and corporate partners. For a mission-oriented leader, this is a rare chance to build something transformational—while surrounded by people who are ready and eager to partner in the work. &nbsp;&nbsp; Knoxville itself offers a welcoming, vibrant environment for professional and personal life. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to its entrepreneurial energy, the city is increasingly recognized as one of the country’s most livable and culturally rich mid-size metros. For a leader seeking purpose, community connection, and the chance to leave a legacy—this opportunity delivers on all fronts. Position Summary At United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK), we are changemakers building a stronger, more equitable community for all. We seek a visionary, collaborative, and action-oriented leader to serve as our next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). &nbsp;&nbsp; This is a dynamic opportunity for an executive who thrives at the intersection of strategy, community, and systems change. The CEO will lead with humility, authenticity, and strategic insight, championing community-driven solutions that address the root causes of inequity and advance lasting impact across our region. This leader will foster a culture rooted in integrity, accountability, and shared success. &nbsp;&nbsp; The CEO will serve as a visible and inspiring community leader, guiding a high-performing team of staff and volunteers, partnering closely with the Board of Directors, and convening stakeholders across the nonprofit, business, and government sectors. They will act as UWGK’s chief brand steward, building trust, relevance, and engagement across the Greater Knoxville region, including the counties of Claiborne, Grainger, Jefferson, Knox and Union. &nbsp;&nbsp; This role demands an experienced and strategic executive with a strong track record in organizational leadership, financial stewardship, and resource development. The CEO will be responsible for driving revenue growth through philanthropic partnerships, individual donor cultivation, and institutional fundraising. Equally important is the ability to build and sustain cross-sector relationships that strengthen UWGK’s role as a vital civic partner and a catalyst for systems-level change. &nbsp;&nbsp; The ideal candidate brings a record of success in nonprofit leadership, deep experience in community partnership, revenue generation and resource development, and a demonstrated ability to lead with integrity, vision, and cultural competence. Leadership Scope The Chief Executive Officer will lead and directly supervise the Executive Leadership Team, including the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Impact Officer, and other senior leaders critical to UWGK’s operations and mission advancement. The CEO also oversees the Executive Assistant and provides indirect guidance to department directors and emerging leaders across the organization, across a total team of 60+ staff. &nbsp;&nbsp; This role is responsible for cultivating a leadership culture that fosters accountability, strategic alignment, collaboration, and continuous development. The CEO ensures that all team members are empowered to contribute meaningfully to UWGK’s mission and are equipped with the tools, support, and shared purpose to succeed. Key Responsibilities<ul><li>Strategic and Visionary Leadership</li><li>Community Engagement and Impact</li><li>Fundraising and Resource Development</li><li>Financial and Operational Management</li><li>Board and Governance Leadership</li><li>Organizational Culture and Talent Development</li></ul> Required Qualifications and Experience<ul><li>Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior executive or board role within the nonprofit sector.</li><li>Deep understanding of community development, public-private partnerships, and the operational models of mission-based organizations.</li><li>Proven experience securing significant philanthropic, corporate, and institutional support.</li><li>Strong track record in strategic planning, organizational growth, and change leadership.</li><li>Demonstrated success managing complex budgets, business operations, and compliance functions.</li><li>Familiarity/working experience within communities comparable to Knoxville in terms of size, socio-economic diversity, cultural complexity, and political dynamics—with demonstrated experience building trust, addressing systemic challenges, convening across sectors, and driving community-wide impact through strategic partnerships and collaborative funding efforts.</li></ul>Leadership Competencies and Attributes<ul><li>Integrity and Character: Embodies the highest ethical standards, authenticity, humility, and emotional intelligence.</li><li>Visioning &amp; Strategic Thinking: Develops and communicates the organizational vision, translating it into actionable strategy and measurable outcomes.</li><li>Relationship Management: Builds and sustains deep trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders.</li><li>Equity-Centered Leadership: Exemplifies a commitment to inclusion, equity, and shared power.</li><li>Communications: Demonstrates a positive public presence and clear, persuasive communication across audiences.</li><li>Financial Acumen: Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and resource optimization.</li><li>Team Empowerment: Sustains a collaborative, respectful culture that fosters staff growth.</li><li>Change Agility: Integrates creativity, resilience, and adaptability in navigating organizational evolution.&nbsp;</li></ul>Living and Working in Knoxville Knoxville is a thriving mid-sized city that blends Southern hospitality, scenic beauty, and cultural vitality into one of the Southeast’s most livable communities. Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River, Knoxville offers the charm of a tight-knit city with the amenities, energy, and innovation of a much larger metro. For professionals, Knoxville is more than a great place to live—it’s a place to lead. The city is home to a vibrant and growing network of civic, nonprofit, and corporate leaders who are deeply engaged in making a difference. Whether in government, business, education, or the arts, collaboration and community-building are in Knoxville’s DNA. A key driver of this professional momentum is the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), a flagship public research institution that is integral to the region’s growth and innovation. UTK serves as a major partner to organizations like UWGK, offering robust opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, thought leadership, and talent development. Its presence fuels a culture of lifelong learning and civic leadership throughout the region. For those raising families, Knoxville offers an array of welcoming neighborhoods, high-quality schools, and easy access to outdoor adventures. From day trips to the Smokies to afternoons at the Knoxville Zoo or the Urban Wilderness trail network, families will find plenty to explore together. The city also boasts an expanding arts scene, year-round festivals, minor league and collegiate sports, and a celebrated culinary community. Knoxville is attractive to professionals at all life stages. Empty nesters and mid-career executives appreciate the city’s rich cultural offerings, walkable downtown, and affordability. Its cost of living remains well below the national average, offering an appealing blend of lifestyle and economic value. With quick driving access to Nashville (2.5 hours) and Atlanta (3.5 hours), Knoxville provides regional connectivity without the congestion of larger cities. It’s a place where community impact meets quality of life—and where leaders come to do their best work while living fully. DESIRED START DATE Fall 2025&nbsp; LOCATION&nbsp; The United Way of Greater Knoxville is located in Knoxville TN and currently requires a hybrid/in office work schedule. Relocation Assistance is available.&nbsp; COMPENSATION The United Way of Greater Knoxville offers a generous annual salary ranging from $180,000 to $230,000. The actual salary offer will depend on several factors, including educational qualifications, training, years of experience, and performance in previous roles. There is also an annual performance-based incentive that is part of the potential overall compensation. BENEFITS The United Way of Greater Knoxville will offer the new CEO performance-based bonuses, relocation assistance, and a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package. &nbsp;&nbsp; FOR INFORMATION &amp; TO APPLY The United Way of Greater Knoxville has retained Kay Linder, Partner within ThinkingAhead Executive Search’s Nonprofit Division to serve as our recruitment partner. If you are interested and qualified, please apply <a href="https://thinkingahead.com/job/405370/" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;Questions can be directed to: Kay Linder Partner, Nonprofit Division ThinkingAhead Executive Search <a href="mailto:klinder@thinkingahead.com" target="_blank">klinder@thinkingahead.com</a>

United Way of Greater Knoxville

United Way of Greater Knoxville | Chief Executive Officer

The President &amp; CEO of United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI) is a strategic leadership role that intersects community impact, collaboration, organizational management, resource development, and innovation. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President &amp; CEO steers the strategy and operations of a dynamic nonprofit committed to improving lives across the NWMI region with an emphasis on the ALICE population. Key areas of focus include accessible childcare programs such as TriShare and Great Start to Quality, as well as a trailblazing dental access program, United We Smile. The President &amp; CEO is a visible and trusted leader in the community—building partnerships, forging donor relationships, influencing public policy, and ensuring every dollar raised drives measurable impact in health, education, and financial stability. With responsibility spanning fundraising, organizational strategy and sustainability, compliance, team development, and financial stewardship, this role is both broad and deeply rewarding. We’re seeking a proven leader, relationship builder, and strategic thinker with financial and operational management expertise who can inspire teams, engage stakeholders, and analyze and enhance the effectiveness, sustainability, and relevance of UWNWMI programs. If you are passionate about creating lasting change in Northern Michigan communities and have the vision to lead an evolving organization into its next chapter, we invite you to explore this opportunity. &nbsp;

4 Leadership / Executive Board Jobs