Executive Director, Benton Community Foundation; NW of Lafayette

Executive Director, Benton Community Foundation (Fowler, IN, NW of Lafayette)

Are you a people-oriented leader who cares deeply about rural Indiana and the people who call it home? Would you thrive in a hands-on role where your work will help shape the future of a close-knit community?

Since 1998, Benton Community Foundation (BCF) has been dedicated to enhancing quality of life through civic leadership, philanthropy, and charitable economic development. Governed by a local Board of Directors, the Foundation connects donors with charitable causes, invests resources where they are needed most, and brings local partners together to create positive change.

Under the current leadership, BCF has experienced significant growth, with assets doubling to roughly $13 million over the past seven years. The incoming Executive Director will step into a planned transition, supported by an engaged Board whose members bring a wide range of professional and local perspectives. New leadership will have the opportunity to build on this strong momentum and guide BCF into its next chapter and continue our partnership with the Lilly Endowment in GIFT IX.

• Assets have doubled in the past seven years, and the foundation is increasing local awareness and impact.
• This is a high visibility leadership role, working closely with residents, businesses, civic leaders, nonprofits, schools, and other community partners to identify opportunities, build connections, and drive real progress.
• Benton County is just west of Lafayette, Indiana. This positions the county and its residents to benefit from the education and innovation of Purdue University.
• With a small staff, this is a role for someone who is comfortable being both a leader and a doer. No two days will look exactly alike, and the Executive Director will wear many hats—from guiding big-picture strategy, to meeting with donors, public officials, and rolling up their sleeves to get the work done.

• Asset Development and Donor Relationships – Lead efforts to grow the Foundation's charitable assets by developing trusted relationships and encouraging current, planned, and estate gifts from individuals, families, businesses, foundations, and affinity groups.
• Organizational and Community Leadership – Provide visible, forward-looking leadership for BCF and help bring people together to strengthen Benton County and the communities the Foundation serves.
• Board Relations and Governance – Partner with the Board President, committee chairs, and Board members to support effective governance and implementation of Board policy.
• Staff Leadership and Organizational Administration – Lead, develop, and support an effective staff team and ensure that BCF's people, policies, systems, and facilities support its mission and strategic priorities.
• Financial and Investment Oversight – Provide financially informed executive oversight while working closely with accounting staff and the Board's Finance and Investment Committees.
• Grantmaking and Scholarships – Provide strategic and hands-on leadership for grantmaking, scholarships, and special initiatives, working closely with staff and volunteer committees.
• Communications and Public Relations – Serve as BCF's chief spokesperson and strengthen public understanding, confidence, and engagement in the Foundation's work.
• Professional Development and Sector Leadership – Maintain active relationships with the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, peer community foundations, and other relevant state and national organizations.

The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking leader, strong communicator, and thoughtful listener who can quickly build trust and credibility. They should appreciate the character and realities…