Vetbiz
Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: Vetbiz (The Veterans Advocacy Foundation, Inc.)
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports To: Board of Directors
Summary:
The Executive Director of Vetbiz, reporting to the Board of Directors, is responsible for executing the strategic direction and ensuring the operational success of the organization.
The Executive Director will oversee all aspects of organizational management, including program development, fundraising, financial management, stakeholder engagement, and staff leadership. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a proven track record in nonprofit management, a deep understanding of entrepreneurship and business ownership, and a passion for serving Veterans.
Vetbiz serves Veteran Business Owners and Entrepreneurs across Southern Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas. The role requires frequent travel within this region, covering two major metropolitan areas: St. Louis and Kansas City, with significant focus on fund development, donor management, outreach, media relations, and marketing efforts in these areas.
The Executive Director must be prepared to represent Vetbiz at events, build relationships with key stakeholders, perform fund development and donor management activities, and ensure the organization’s mission is effectively communicated and upheld.
While the ideal candidate does not need to be a Veteran, they must possess a deep connection to the Veteran community and a strong understanding of the unique challenges and experiences faced by Veterans.
Role and Responsibilities
Leadership and Execution:
- Implement strategic execution plans to achieve Vetbiz’s mission and goals based on the organization’s overall strategic plan.
- Provide direction to staff and volunteers, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence throughout the organization.
Program Development and Management:
- Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services to meet the needs of veteran entrepreneurs.
- Ensure program effectiveness and impact through ongoing assessment and evaluation.
- Identify opportunities for program growth and expansion to better serve the veteran community.
Fundraising and Financial Management:
- Lead fundraising efforts to secure financial support from donors, sponsors, and grant-making organizations.
- Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency.
- Monitor financial performance and report regularly to the Board of Directors on financial matters.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including veterans, government agencies, corporate partners, and community organizations.
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for Vetbiz, representing the organization at public events, conferences, and media appearances.
- Collaborate with the Board of Directors to ensure effective governance and oversight of the organization.
Staff Leadership and Development:
- Recruit, hire, and retain a diverse and talented team of staff and volunteers.
- Provide mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities to staff to foster growth and success.
- Create a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Operational Excellence:
- Ensure the efficient and effective operation of all organizational functions, including administration, human resources, and technology.
- Implement policies and procedures to promote organizational compliance and best practices.
- Monitor and mitigate organizational risks to protect the integrity and reputation of Vetbiz.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
Pertinent verified years of business experience will be considered. - A minimum of 10 years of corporate or business experience with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role (supervisor or above).
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders effectively.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Strong executive presence and ability to represent the organization effectively.
- Knowledge of Veteran issues and experience working with Veteran populations preferred.
- Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and email communication.
- Strong soft skills, including problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.
- Minimum of 18 months of experience in nonprofit management, including program development, fundraising, and financial management.
- Willingness to travel frequently within Southern Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas, with a focus on Kansas City for fund development and outreach efforts.
Core Competencies:
- Execution: Demonstrates the ability to implement plans and achieve organizational goals effectively.
- Financial Acumen: Proficient in managing budgets, financial reporting, resource allocation, and interpreting or producing profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and other financial documents.
- Fundraising Expertise: Proven track record of securing financial support through diverse fundraising strategies.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in building and maintaining relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Program Management: Experienced in developing, implementing, and evaluating programs and services.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively represent the organization.
- Adaptability: Flexible and responsive to changing circumstances and challenges.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to VetbizEDSearch2024@vetbiz.com. by September 30, 2024.
