Executive Director

826michigan is a nonprofit organization that serves thousands of school-aged students across Detroit, Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. Our writing and tutoring programs are designed to inspire students to write confidently and skillfully with the help of adult volunteers in their communities. We believe that with one-on-one attention from caring adults, students improve academic performance, develop a sense of belonging, and discover the unique value of their own voices.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director has overall responsibility for 826michigan’s operations and strategic plan. The successful candidate will combine a proven track record in nonprofit leadership with an understanding of 826michigan’s mission and program offerings to improve and expand the organization’s impact across Southeast Michigan. With 826michigan staff and volunteers, the Executive Director provides guidance, oversight, and direction for all aspects of 826michigan operations.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to fundraising, marketing and public relations, staff / volunteer management and development, retail and building operations, financial management, and strategic planning.

After rapid expansion in recent years, 826michigan is in a strong and steady position with a talented staff of 11, a robust volunteer corps, an engaged board, and well-established funding and community relationships.

Responsibilities

Strategy/Operations

• Work with the 826michigan board to develop and implement a strategic plan for the organization and lead a forward-thinking approach to its staff, leadership, and the entire organization.
• Report to the 826michigan board of directors on programming, fundraising, finances, events, publications, personnel, strategic planning, and other matters.
• Represent 826michigan at 826 National meetings, executive director meetings, staff conferences, and other gatherings.
• Ensure prudent fiscal management of 826michigan, including establishment of salaries, management of expenses, strategic financial planning, and preparation of monthly financial reports and annual budgets.
• Manage all legal and operational issues, including contracts, employment matters, leases and building management, publication and other agreements, and oversight of retail operations.
• Successfully and directly ask individual and other funders for financial gifts;
  Cultivate and support donors through every stage of a gift;
  Deliver authentic gratitude, timely information, and individualized attention to donors in our community of supporters.
• Partner with Development Director to create and implement 826michigan fundraising strategy, including grant applications, corporate and private philanthropy, individual donations, and special events.
• Plan and implement a series of public events designed to support the overall mission, engage key constituents, and raise funds and other support.

Program Management

• Ensure that 826michigan achieves its educational mission as laid out by both the chapter standards developed by 826 National and objectives determined by our local board and leadership.
• Partner with Program Director to oversee all programming, including after-school tutoring, in-school projects, field trips, workshops, and off-site programs.
• Work collegially with volunteers at all levels and interns, assisting them as necessary and appropriate and expressing appreciation on behalf of the organization.

Marketing/PR/Communications

• Articulate 826michigan’s mission to funders, volunteers, the educational community, and the media.
• Guide all external relations and collaborations, including website, annual fundraising appeals, and public relations; serve as spokesperson for media appearances and other public speaking opportunities; handle crisis communications.
• Develop and maintain relationships with education and community leaders that will facilitate programming growth.

Qualifications

• A flexible, creative spirit and a demonstrated passion for the mission, vision, and values of 826michigan.
• At least five years of experience in nonprofit executive leadership, preferably managing a large staff over multiple locations and serving as an…