Executive Director

Position: Executive Director

Leadership Ashtabula County

About Leadership Ashtabula County

Leadership Ashtabula County is a private 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit dedicated to encouraging, educating, and inspiring individuals of all ages to become engaged civic leaders. Through youth and adult programming, we cultivate informed, connected, and community-minded leaders who positively impact Ashtabula County.

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors and led by an Executive Director who oversees all programs, operations, fundraising, and strategic direction.

We are a mission-driven organization with an entrepreneurial culture, small-office environment, and flexibility in work hours and location based on organizational needs.

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and forward-facing representative of Leadership Ashtabula County. This individual is responsible for the strategic leadership and operational management of the organization, including program execution, financial stewardship, board collaboration, fund development, and long-term sustainability.

The Executive Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and works closely with the Board Chair and Executive Committee to advance the organization’s mission and vision.

This role requires a high degree of independence, initiative, organization, conceptual thinking, financial acumen, and the ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Board Partnership

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop and execute strategic plans.
• Organize and prepare materials for monthly board meetings.
• Support board committees in achieving strategic objectives.
• Plan and facilitate the annual board retreat.
• Participate in board development, evaluation, and planning processes.

2. Program Leadership & Community Engagement

• Oversee all core programming (youth and adult initiatives).
• Lead recruitment efforts for all leadership programs.
• Facilitate curriculum review and continuous improvement efforts.
• Ensure high-quality program implementation throughout the year.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, community stakeholders, businesses, and supporters.
• Serve as the organization’s advocate and representative at community events.
• Manage marketing, social media, and email communications.

3. Fund Development & Financial Stewardship

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Identify, write, and secure grants aligned with the organization’s mission.
• Cultivate partnerships, sponsorships, and entrepreneurial revenue sources.
• Collaborate with the Treasurer and Finance Committee to create and present the annual budget.
• Oversee payroll, bookkeeping, tax filings, and financial compliance.
• Ensure strong financial accountability and long-term sustainability.

4. Organizational Effectiveness & Continuous Improvement

• Utilize program evaluation and impact measures to inform strategic decisions.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
• Enhance the visibility and reputation of Leadership Ashtabula County.
• Foster staff development, collaboration, and forward-thinking growth.
• Plan and execute major events, outreach initiatives, retreats, and alumni engagement activities.

The Executive Director is expected to be present for all program days, commencement ceremonies, retreats, and major Leadership Ashtabula County events.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred).
• Have experience in nonprofit leadership, education, strategic planning, fundraising, or related fields.
• Demonstrate strong financial and budget management skills.
• Exhibit high ethical standards, accountability, and personal integrity.
• Embrace the nonprofit “can-do” culture and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Be highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of independent work.
• Possess excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Be comfortable serving as a public-facing community leader and advocate.

Experience with grant writing, sponsorship development, and board engagement strongly preferred.

Work Schedule & Expectations

• Full-time, exempt position (average 40 hours per week).
• Some evenings, early mornings, and weekends required (special events and retreats).
• Occasional local travel required.
• This role includes both office-based and off-site community engagement activities.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications and includes:

• Flexible hours and workspace based on organizational needs
• Four weeks paid vacation
• Additional discretionary time off at the Board Chair’s approval

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to:

[email protected]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Leadership Ashtabula County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

For more information on LEADERship Ashtabula County, please visit

Please note, Forbes Human Resources, LLC is posting this position on behalf of their client, Leadership Ashtabula County.

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person