Executive Director - RISE (Regional Innovation & Startup Education)

Job Title: Executive Director

Location: South Bend, IN

Organization: RISE (Regional Innovation & Startup Education)

About RISE:

RISE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering economic development and enhancing the quality of life in the South Bend-Elkhart region through various educational, entrepreneurial, and community engagement initiatives. Our vision is to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem by investing in the talent within our community through hands-on entrepreneurial education and programming.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director of RISE will be responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of the organization. This role requires a dynamic and visionary leader who can drive the organization’s mission, foster strong relationships with stakeholders, and ensure the organization's sustainability and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership:
• Collaborate with the stakeholders to develop and implement the organization’s strategic plan.
• Provide visionary leadership to guide the organization toward achieving its mission and goals.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact.
• Operational Management:
• Collaborate with the COO to oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to enhance organizational performance and effectiveness.
• Manage and support a talented team of staff.
• Financial Management:
• Develop and manage the organization’s budget to ensure financial stability and sustainability.
• Identify and secure funding sources, including CSA and CTE funding, grants, donations, and partnerships.
• Oversee financial reporting, audits, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders, donors, partners, and government agencies.
• Represent the organization at public events, meetings, and media engagements.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and transparency within the organization and with external partners.
• Program Development and Evaluation:
• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and initiatives.
• Ensure programs align with the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
• Monitor and report on program outcomes and impact.
• Board Relations:
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the Board on organizational performance and strategic initiatives.
• Support the Board in governance, fundraising, and strategic planning efforts.

Qualifications:

• Education: An entrepreneurial background and mindset are required. Startup or founder experience is highly desired. Teaching experience and an understanding of Mastery-Based Learning are valuable to the role. Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field or experience. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of management experience, with a proven track record of leadership, strategic planning, and financial management. EOS experience is a plus.
• Skills:
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders.
• Financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and fundraising.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Personal Attributes:

• Passionate about entrepreneurship and the mission of RISE.
• Visionary and forward-thinking, with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Collaborative and inclusive, with a focus on building strong relationships and partnerships.
• Ethical and transparent, with a high level of integrity and professionalism.

RISE is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Do you have entrepreneurial experience?
• Do you have a teaching background?

Ability to Commute:

• South Bend, IN 46617 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• South Bend, IN 46617: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in South Bend, IN 46617

Salary : $90,000 - $100,000