Placers is pleased to announce a new executive search for a dynamic, visionary, strategic and collaborative leader to serve as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Leadership Delaware, Inc. (LDI) , located in Wilmington, Delaware.

About LDI: LDI ignites the potential of outstanding individuals who live, work, or have significant ties to Delaware by fostering leadership excellence. LDI’s mission is to recruit and mentor talent, equipping them with the knowledge, vision, and networks needed to make a profound and lasting impact on their communities. LDI prepares leaders to excel in community service, nonprofit initiatives, political arenas, professional environments, and corporate leadership roles within the First State.

Role Overview: The CEO, under the executive oversight of the Board of Directors, is responsible for the overall direction and management of the organization. The CEO is aware of and maintains a strong awareness of current trends, challenges and emerging business sectors in Delaware, the CEO promotes the work of the organization and advocates for the organization’s mission with public policymakers and the broader community statewide.

Key responsibilities include:

• Executing the LDI core mission, identifying growth initiatives and cultivating partnerships
• Maintaining an efficient organizational structure
• Acting as the principal spokesperson at local, state, and national levels
• Recommending policies and major programs to the Board
• Supporting Board committees

Ideal Candidate Profile: The ideal candidate will have a solid background in leadership development, a strategic vision for the future, and a passion for transforming lives and fostering positive change within the community. They will be an innovative individual dedicated to leadership development with strong interpersonal skills, a collaborative approach, and a proven track record in successful fundraising and leadership.

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter to:

Bernice Whaley. Email: bwhaley@myplacers.com

Primary Responsibilities:

• Organizational and Program Leadership: Lead strategic and operational management, including delivering fellowship programs and leading the Leadership Development series.
• Growth and Advancement: Drive the organization's mission by aligning initiatives, identifying growth opportunities, and securing resources.
• Policy & Planning: Implement the mission, strategic plan, develop annual plans, provide administrative support for Board policy making, and monitor program effectiveness.
• Budget & Finances: Oversee financial status, propose budgets and ensure adherence to financial policies.
• Public Relations & Communications: Promote the organization's work, serve as spokesperson, and refine communication strategies.
• Fundraising & Development: Formulate and execute development strategies, annual plans and fundraising efforts.
• Board Governance: Work with the Board to fulfill the organization’s mission and provide necessary information.
• Committee Work: Serve as an ex officio member of all committees, ensuring support and completion of tasks.
• Board Recruitment & Development: Participate in onboarding new Board members and maintain strong relationships.
• Staff Oversight, Compensation, and Evaluation: Oversee staff management and evaluation processes.

Qualifications:

The CEO will be thoroughly committed to the mission and vision of Leadership Delaware. All candidates should have proven leadership, coaching, and relationship management experience and a proven track record of resource development. Specific requirements include:

• Exemplary personal ethics, integrity, and professionalism, underscored by a track record of clear self-awareness and self-assessment.
• Advanced degree advantageous, with meaningful years of senior management experience, with a track record of effective program delivery
• A history of successfully generating new revenue streams and improving financial results, including active fundraising and donor relations experience
• Strong financial management experience, including budget preparation, analysis, decision-making, and reporting.
• Experience coaching, managing, and developing high-performing teams.
• Previous success in establishing positive relationships with individuals and organizations of influence, including funders, partner agencies, volunteers, public officials, and business leaders.
• Experience and skill in working with a Board of Directors
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Strong knowledge of Delaware and the broader business and non-profit community would be considered a plus.
• Demonstrates a proven ability to foster robust connections with key decision-makers throughout the state of Delaware and surrounding areas.

Skills:

• High-integrity leadership.
• Strategic thinking and planning.
• Organizational management and communication.
• Public speaking confidence.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with team orientation.
• Self-directed with strong interpersonal skills.