Executive Director

Overview

About the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, we believe every child fighting cancer deserves a moment of joy. It all started in 1996, when founder Colleen Kisel saw the comfort a small toy brought her son, Martin, during his cancer treatment. That simple gift sparked a big idea: bring smiles and comfort to kids facing the toughest battles. Today, Treasure Chest Programs have been established in 69 pediatric cancer centers across twenty-two states.

After a difficult procedure, each child gets to choose a toy, gift, or gift card – a small reward for their strength and bravery.

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive officer of the organization and is responsible for the overall strategic leadership, operational management, and sustainability of the children’s charity. The ED ensures alignment with the mission, effective implementation of programs, strong financial stewardship, and positive community impact. This role manages a small staff of four and collaborates closely with the Board of Directors to drive organizational success.

• Supervisory Responsibilities & Level of Authority
  • Directly supervises:
    Administrative Assistant, Warehouse Manager, Graphic Designer/Social Media Coordinator, Accountant
  • Provides guidance, direction, and performance evaluations for all staff
  • Has authority over day-to-day operations, hiring, performance management, and disciplinary actions (with Board oversight on executive-level matters).
  • Serves as the primary decision-maker for organizational operations within the parameters set by the Board and established policies.
  • Acts as the main liaison between the Board of Directors and staff.
• Priority Functions
  • Provide strategic leadership to advance the mission and vision of the organization
  • Ensure financial health, accountability, and sustainability through sound fiscal management
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors, families, and community partners
  • Oversee staff management, HR compliance, and organizational effectiveness
  • Direct programs and operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and alignment with mission
  • Represent the organization publicly and serve as its chief spokesperson
• Leadership
  • Develop and execute the organization’s strategic plan and annual goals
  • Foster an organizational culture of integrity, collaboration, and innovation
  • Inspire and motivate staff, volunteers, and stakeholders to achieve the mission
  • Monitor trends and identify opportunities for growth and improvement
• Board Relations
  • Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, providing timely reports
  • Assist the Board in governance functions, policy development, and strategic planning
  • Participate in Board meetings and committees as needed
  • Implement Board-approved policies and directives
• Policy & Compliance Management
  • Ensure all organizational policies, procedures, and operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations
  • Maintain current knowledge of nonprofit regulations, child welfare standards, and ethical guidelines
  • Oversee risk management and legal compliance, including insurance coverage and liability
• Human Resources Duties
  • Manage the recruitment, onboarding, and supervision of staff
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback
  • Ensure compliance with employment laws, payroll, and HR processes
  • Promote professional development opportunities for staff
• Operational Planning & Management
  • Oversee the effective delivery of programs and services for children and families
  • Develop operational plans, budgets, and performance metrics
  • Maintain facility and equipment standards, ensuring safety and efficiency
  • Coordinate with the Warehouse Manager to manage inventory and distribution
• Financial Management
  • Prepare, manage, and monitor annual budgets in collaboration with the Accountant and Finance team
  • Ensure accurate financial reporting and timely submission of reports to stakeholders
  • Oversee grant management, including compliance and reporting requirements
  • Lead fundraising initiatives, including donor relations, major gifts, and campaigns
• Administrative Management
  • Maintain organized records, including HR, financial, donor, and program documentation
  • Oversee technology systems and ensure data security
  • Coordinate office operations for efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Family & Community Relations
  • Act as the primary spokesperson for the organization in the community
  • Build and maintain relationships with families served, ensuring empathy and support
  • Cultivate partnerships with community organizations, schools, businesses, and donors
  • Represent the organization at events, conferences, and networking opportunities