Girls on the Run Northeast Ohio - Executive Director

Job Title: Executive Director
Location: Northeast Ohio
Reports to: Board of Directors
FLSA Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary: $90,000 - $110,000

Organization Summary
Girls on the Run Northeast Ohio (GOTNEO) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams. We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through a fun, experience-based curriculum that integrates running. We serve Cuyahoga, Summit, Portage, Medina, Lake, and Lorain Counties, with over 1,700 girls participating in our programs last fiscal year. To learn more about our program and impact, visit: www.gotrnortheastohio.org/.

Girls on the Run believes that all girls and communities should have access to our programs. We strive to eliminate barriers to participation, to continue creating programming that engages all communities, to be intentional about staff and volunteer diversity, and to promote a culture of inclusion across the organization.

Position Summary
The Executive Director provides leadership, vision, and direction for GOTNEO and represents the council within the broader GOTR network. This is a dynamic role that spans key areas of impact, including operational development, strategic planning, program delivery, donor relations, and personnel management. The Executive Director works with a mighty team of 5 staff members and collaborates closely with the Board of Directors and GOTRI headquarters to drive growth, expand revenue, and increase program reach. 

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

Operational and Staff Management

• Develop and maintain strong communication and open dialogue with the Board of Directors and GOTRI
• Oversee recruitment, training, development, and evaluation of staff
• Provide support, mentorship and professional development opportunities to staff to foster growth, job satisfaction, and retention

Program Development and Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with the Board and staff to set direction for the organization’s programs and develop a growth plan
• Ensure successful implementation of quality programming
• Track progress toward organizational goals and key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Cultivate relationships with coaches, donors, parents, participants, sponsors, and volunteers
• Represent and act as an ambassador for Girls on the Run’s mission and programs

Organizational Administration

• Develop and implement necessary policies and procedures
• Collaborate with the Board to plan for infrastructure growth in line with program expansion
• Establish efficient business systems and ensure appropriate implementation
• Maintain ethical standards, manage risks, and perform due diligence
• Oversee financial, operational, and programmatic reporting to GOTRI and relevant local/state agencies
• Ensure compliance with all laws and guidelines governing nonprofit organizations and the GOTRI Membership Agreement, Policies, and Guidelines

Fundraising & Branding

• Oversee fundraising efforts, including sponsorships, donor cultivation, grants, and events, to increase contributed income by 25% annually
• Oversee initiatives to enhance the Girls on the Run brand and image in the community
• Develop community partnerships and collaborative projects
• Build relationships with local media and maximize Cause-Related Marketing opportunities with GOTRI

Finance

• Ensure optimal financial performance for the council
• Oversee proper record-keeping, internal financial controls
• Regularly review and report financial activities, identifying trends for improvement
• Assist the Board in the development and management of the annual budget

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of nonprofit executive leadership and management experience
• Proven ability to build and lead effective teams
• Experience in leading successful nonprofit growth initiatives
• Passion for the Girls on the Run mission, with the ability to communicate effectively on empowerment, self-esteem, and health
• Exceptional communication skills with diverse audiences
• Proven experience in budgeting and financial forecasting
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and make decisions
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Established connections with local community leaders and organizations

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with strategic planning
• Familiarity with Girls on the Run or similar youth/wellness programs
• Fundraising and/or sales experience
• Experience working with a Board of Directors

Work Environment:
This full-time, exempt position offering a compensation range of $90,000 - $110,000 annually, depending on experience. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and is based at the GOTNEO office in Brecksville, Ohio. The position requires in-office presence five days a week, with flexibility for remote work on designated days. Weekend work may be required. GOTNEO offers a healthcare stipend, flexible work hours, generous paid time off, and a supportive team environment.

Salary : $90,000 - $110,000