Executive Director - Charitable Foundations

Executive Director - Charitable Foundations

Company: Cotton Holdings Inc. (Cotton Foundation) – a Houston‑based nonprofit dedicated to restoring hope to children and families affected by disasters, illnesses, and other life‑altering events.

Location: Houston, TX

Department: Administrative

Employment Type: Full‑time

Salary: $ – $ per year

The Executive Director (ED) will provide dynamic leadership and strategic direction to the Cotton Foundation, ensuring the mission, vision and values are effectively implemented. The ED will work closely with the Founder, Board of Directors, staff, donors and volunteers to strengthen the Foundation’s programs, fundraising efforts and community engagement. The ideal candidate will have substantial leadership experience in a nonprofit or hospitality‑based setting, with a proven track record in fundraising, strategic planning, team management and community involvement.

• Lead the development and execution of strategic goals, objectives and long‑term planning to advance the Foundation’s mission.
• Foster a strong organizational culture that supports compassion, collaboration and excellence.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson, cultivating relationships with donors, partners, government entities and the community.
• Inspire, motivate and manage a high‑performing staff with mentorship and professional development.
• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies, leveraging major donors, corporate partnerships, grants and individual contributions.
• Build and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations and other key funders to ensure sustainable revenue streams.
• Oversee planning and execution of fundraising events, campaigns and donor outreach initiatives.
• Develop donor retention, recognition and stewardship strategies.
• Cultivate relationships with local community organizations, government agencies and other stakeholders to enhance reach and impact.
• Collaborate with hospitals, social service agencies, schools and other entities that assist children and families affected by disasters and illnesses.
• Lead outreach efforts to raise awareness and engage media, influencers and the public.
• Represent the Foundation in public speaking engagements, community events and conferences.
• Oversee day‑to‑day operations and ensure efficient program delivery.
• Manage budgets, develop financial reports and monitor cash flow to maintain fiscal health.
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory and tax requirements.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Provide regular updates to the Founder and Board on progress, fundraising, and financial status.
• Collaborate with the Board to support governance, facilitate meetings and strengthen Board–staff partnership.

• Minimum of 10 years in nonprofit leadership, preferably within a foundation, hospitality or disaster‑relief setting.
• Proven success in fundraising, community engagement and leading teams in a mission‑driven organization.
• Strong strategic planning, budgeting and organizational management skills.
• Track record securing funding from individuals, corporations, foundations and government entities.
• Experience in major gift cultivation and grant writing.
• Passion for community service and understanding of challenges faced by children and families.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication; comfortable with public speaking and advocacy.
• Financial acumen to manage budgets and comply with regulations.
• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Social Work, Business Administration or related field.

• Strong network within nonprofit or hospitality sectors.
• Experience in family‑centered or health‑focused organizations.
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders and navigate sensitive situations.
• High emotional intelligence and strong problem‑solving skills.

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health, dental and vision insurance; paid time off; retirement plan options.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Inclusive, collaborative and supportive work culture; occasional evening or weekend events and travel may be required.

At Cotton, we value Action Orientation, Collaboration and Accountability
. We seek someone who communicates effectively, makes data‑driven decisions and thrives in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please contact HR (877) 511‑2962 #dnp.

This Job Description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent(s). It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent(s) may be asked to perform other duties as requested.