Executive Director Trainee

Manitowoc County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. is a nonprofit housing ministry that partners with local families to build simple, decent, and affordable homes in Manitowoc County. The organization manages the full scope of homebuilding activities, including fundraising, site selection, family selection and support, construction, and mortgage servicing, following the operational and philosophical guidelines of Habitat for Humanity International. By leveraging volunteer labor, donated materials, financial contributions, and future homeowners’ sweat equity, homes are sold at no profit and with no interest to qualifying low-income families, who then make mortgage and tax payments like any other homeowner.

Through its housing and repair programs, including the Habitat Home Repairs initiative launched in 2016, the organization helps families live safely and independently, offering hands-on building experience, home ownership workshops, and financial education. With community support, Manitowoc County Habitat for Humanity focuses on building houses, hope, and long-term partnerships that empower families to achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance.

The Executive Director Trainee is a full-time, on-site role based in Manitowoc, WI, designed to prepare an individual to assume full executive leadership responsibilities for the affiliate. This role supports the Executive Director in overseeing daily operations, including program management, staff and volunteer coordination, and compliance with Habitat for Humanity International guidelines. The trainee assists with fundraising initiatives, donor relations, grant writing, community outreach, and partnership development with local organizations, faith communities, and businesses.

Day-to-day tasks include helping manage budgets, monitoring project timelines for home builds and repair programs, supporting family selection and homeowner support processes, and contributing to board reporting and strategic planning. The role also involves representing the organization at community events, promoting its mission, and continuously learning nonprofit management practices to ensure a smooth transition into an executive leadership capacity.

• Nonprofit management and leadership skills, including familiarity with program administration, strategic planning, and board relations.
• Fundraising, donor relations, and grant development abilities to support financial sustainability and community partnerships.
• Community outreach, stakeholder engagement, and public speaking skills to represent the organization and promote its mission.
• Basic financial management skills, such as budgeting, reporting, and understanding of mortgage and housing-related finances.
• Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills to oversee multiple programs and initiatives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and partner families.
• Commitment to affordable housing, community service, and the mission and values of Habitat for Humanity.
• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, social services, or a related field, or equivalent