Executive Director

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Ignite

MN is seeking a locally based, relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and sustainability. This role is ideal for a nonprofit leader with a proven fundraising track record, deep experience working with boards of directors, and a strong commitment to being present and engaged in the Red Wing community and surrounding region. The Executive Director serves as the organization’s chief strategist, funder steward, and public face, balancing hands‑on leadership with long‑term vision.

The Executive Director works in close partnership with the Board of Directors to advance Ignite

MN’s mission of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses through education, resources, and connections. Success in this role requires demonstrated experience securing and managing grant funding, cultivating partnerships, and translating strategy into effective programs and operations. This is a highly collaborative, community‑embedded role for someone who values place‑based economic development and understands the importance of trust, relationships, and local presence in nonprofit leadership.

Location: Red Wing, MN (on‑site; must be local or able to commute daily to Red Wing)

Position Type: Full‑Time, Exempt

Annual Salary: $85,000‑105,000 plus benefits, including 401K with 3% match, dental and vision coverage, PTO, travel reimbursement, and cell phone stipend

Reports To: Board of Directors

Send cover letter and resume to: Info

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors
• Lead the board and staff in strategic planning and execution of the plan
• Develop, pitch for approval, and maintain the organizational budget
• Schedule, prepare agendas, and support effective board meetings
• Provide regular updates on organizational performance, risks, and opportunities
• Track progress against strategic goals and ensure alignment with board priorities
• Collaborate with the grant writer and fundraising committee to support long‑term sustainability
• Secure and maintain long‑term funding sources for the organization
• Lead the staff to ensure all grant obligations, milestones, and reporting requirements are met
• Coordinate with subcontractors and partners to align work with grant deliverables
• Support audits, evaluations, and funder communications as needed
• Partner with the grant writer to ensure program execution aligns with funded proposals

• Communicate clearly with all existing and potential stakeholders about the impact of the organization on the communities served
• Represent Ignite
  
  MN at local and regional meetings, events, and convenings
• Build and maintain strong relationships and collaborate with City of Red Wing and regional municipalities, Red Wing Downtown Main Street (DTMS) and local business groups, funders, sponsors, and ecosystem partners
• Coordinate with partners, including MTN, DTMS, and SBDC, to ensure service quality and programming alignment
• Act as a connector between Ignite
  
  MN and the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem

• Oversee day‑to‑day operations of IgniteMN
• Ensure programs are delivered with quality, consistency, and impact
• Manage vendors, subcontractors, and consultants
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial stewardship in collaboration with the Board
• Uphold Ignite
  
  MN’s mission, values, and community‑centered approach

• 5+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, economic development, entrepreneurship support, and/or a related field
• Demonstrated experience working with boards, funders, and community partners
• Proven fundraising track record in the nonprofit sector
• Strong understanding of grant‑funded programs and compliance requirements
• Proven relationship‑builder with deep community engagement skills
• Excellent communication, organization, and strategic thinking abilities
  
  Comfortable working across strategy, operations, and external representation

This role requires a strong local presence. Candidates must live in Red Wing or within a reasonable commuting distance…