Hiring an Executive Director is one of the most important decisions your nonprofit board will ever make. No pressure, right?

The right ED will steer your organization toward long-term impact, stronger programs, better fundraising, and a team that actually likes coming to work. But before they can do any of that, you have to get them in the door—and that starts with a solid job description.

If your current job post is just a list of buzzwords and vague responsibilities, it’s time for an upgrade. This sample Executive Director job description is written with clarity, structure, and real-life nonprofit expectations in mind. Use it as-is, or tweak it to fit your organization’s size, mission, and culture.

Executive Director Job Description Sample

Position Title: Executive Director
Location: [City, State]
Reports to: Board of Directors
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

About the Organization

[Insert your nonprofit’s name] is a mission-driven organization focused on [insert your mission in plain, inspiring language]. We serve [target population or community] through programs such as [list key services or initiatives], and we’re proud to be known for our commitment to [insert distinguishing characteristic: innovation, grassroots leadership, equity, etc.].

Our values—[insert 3–4, e.g., accountability, transparency, equity, boldness]—aren’t just words on a wall. They guide our decisions, how we work together, and how we show up for our community.

We are in a period of [growth/consolidation/strategic planning/etc.] and are seeking a visionary Executive Director who is equally passionate about people and process—someone who can lead with purpose, partner with the Board, and build on a strong foundation to take us to the next level.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the chief executive and face of the organization, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and external representation. They will work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to set priorities, manage resources, and ensure mission alignment in all aspects of the organization’s work.

This position requires a leader who is equally comfortable managing a budget as they are mentoring a staff member, or speaking at a public forum. The ED will cultivate a values-driven workplace, build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, and ensure the organization remains financially healthy and programmatically effective.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Lead the organization in pursuit of its mission and strategic goals, ensuring alignment between daily operations and long-term vision.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to review and refresh strategic plans, policies, and organizational benchmarks.
• Support board development and engagement by preparing clear reports, advising on governance best practices, and helping recruit new board members with diverse perspectives.

Organizational Management

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficient processes, team alignment, and consistent execution across departments or functions.
• Maintain clear systems for internal communication, decision-making, and project accountability.
• Implement and monitor internal policies and procedures that reflect nonprofit compliance and support a healthy, inclusive workplace culture.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

• Supervise and mentor staff members; provide regular performance feedback and opportunities for growth.
• Promote professional development and a culture of mutual support, learning, and collaboration.
• Ensure the organization’s compensation, benefits, and HR policies reflect sector standards and support employee retention.

Fundraising & Development

• Develop and execute a multi-pronged fundraising strategy, including individual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grant writing, and events.
• Build and sustain relationships with donors, funders, and institutional partners through thoughtful stewardship and regular engagement.
• Collaborate with the Board and staff to create a culture of philanthropy and maximize fundraising potential across the organization.

Financial Oversight

• Lead financial planning and management, including development of the annual budget in collaboration with relevant staff and the Board’s finance committee.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance, ensuring timely reporting, fiscal responsibility, and compliance with all legal requirements.
• Ensure that financial controls and procedures are in place and aligned with best practices.

Program Oversight & Evaluation

• Oversee design, delivery, and evaluation of all programs and services, ensuring alignment with community needs and strategic goals.
• Use data and community feedback to continuously improve the quality and impact of the organization’s work.
• Stay informed of developments and trends in the field to ensure that the organization remains innovative and responsive.

Communications, Marketing & Advocacy

• Serve as the public face of the organization and lead external communications.
• Develop a consistent voice across all marketing channels—social media, newsletters, website, annual reports, etc.
• Represent the organization in public forums, coalitions, and media opportunities to advocate for the mission and elevate visibility.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• At least [insert #] years of senior-level nonprofit management experience.
• Demonstrated success in staff leadership, fundraising, and financial management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; capable of engaging a wide range of audiences.
• Experience working with or on a nonprofit Board of Directors.

Preferred Attributes:

• Authentic passion for the mission and an understanding of the organization’s target community.
• Comfort with ambiguity, change management, and organizational growth.
• Familiarity with nonprofit finance systems, donor databases, and program evaluation tools.
• Ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics with empathy, accountability, and integrity.

Compensation & Benefits

[Insert salary range or “competitive salary commensurate with experience”]
Benefits include [healthcare, retirement, PTO, hybrid work schedule, etc.]. We are committed to offering a compensation package that reflects our values and supports the well-being of our team.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter explaining your interest and fit for the role to [insert email or link]. Include “Executive Director Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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