Executive Director

Job Summary
The Executive Director (ED) is the primary leader and strategist, external champion and brand ambassador, and organizational leader for the Mankato YWCA. Reporting to the Board of Directors (BOD), the ED will be an experienced leader and strategist with fundraising or sales experience who can advocate successfully and passionately on behalf of the YWCA and the greater Mankato community.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Advance the organization’s mission, vision, and impact through strategic leadership, advocacy, and relationship-building.
• Lead organizational vision and strategy to ensure continued relevance as community needs evolve.
• Foster a high-performing, mission-driven culture through staff development, regular feedback, and strong internal communication.

Board Partnership

• Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction, establish policy, and strengthen human and financial resources.
• Support board recruitment, engagement, and effectiveness through well-designed meetings and planning processes.
• Ensure the Board is informed of organizational performance, impact, and key issues.

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Ensure the financial health, stability, and sustainable growth of the organization.
• Lead annual budgeting and provide oversight of financial reporting, forecasts, and performance.
• Evaluate the financial feasibility of existing programs and new initiatives.
• Oversee operations to ensure high-quality programs, effective systems, and consistent service delivery.

Resource Development

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy with a focus on high-impact revenue sources.
• Lead major donor and institutional fundraising, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

Community Relations & Advocacy

• Serve as a visible and compelling ambassador for the YWCA, strengthening relationships with community partners, donors, and stakeholders.
• Represent the organization locally, regionally, and nationally.
• Promote organizational programs and lead logistics and administration for key initiatives, including the EKWL program.
• Lead organizational vision and strategy to ensure continued relevance as community needs evolve.
• Foster a high-performing, mission-driven culture through staff development, regular feedback, and strong internal communication.

Requirements

• Senior-level leadership experience in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.
• Experience working with a Board of Directors and leading strategic planning and operations.
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and resource development.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills with community partners and stakeholders.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and inspire staff in support of the YWCA mission of empowering women and girls.

Equal Opportunity Employer
YWCA Mankato is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage people of color, Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and members of other historically marginalized communities to apply.