Executive Director

Job Description

The Position

HopeCo is a non-profit with a vision for “Transformed Lives, Flourishing Communities.”

We are seeking a new Executive Director to join our team. Their role will be to provide strategic leadership for HopeCo's US-based operations, focusing on fundraising, communications, team development, and organizational growth. They will work in close partnership with the East Africa Regional Director to advance HopeCo's mission and ensure the US team effectively supports program excellence in East Africa. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

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About Us

Check out the website to learn about our team, impact, finances, vision, mission, and values.

This video will also take you on a tour to learn about where we’ve come from and where we’re heading.

Job Description

  • 1. Cultivate a Christ-Centered Organizational Culture

    • Model HopeCo's values: Faith, Empowerment, Partnership and Leadership.

    • Champion the spiritual health of the team through devotions, prayer, and encouraging staff spiritual growth

    • Foster a culture of excellence that attracts, retains, and motivates talented team members

    • Uphold policies and practices that safeguard the vulnerable children and individuals we serve

    2. Lead Fundraising and Donor Relations

    • Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to support organizational growth

    • Maintain and grow a portfolio of major donors ($5,000+ per annum), building relationships through personal meetings and strategic communication

    • Establish and expand partnerships with churches, businesses, and organizations

    • Prepare compelling funding proposals and grant applications

    • Oversee donor care and ensure excellent donor communication

    3. Direct Marketing and Communications

    • Oversee all marketing, branding, and public awareness strategies

    • Ensure high-quality communications through newsletters, impact reports, social media, website, and digital channels

    • Serve as primary spokesperson for HopeCo with supporters, media, and the public

    • Lead speaking engagements at churches and other venues

    • Coordinate and lead donor vision trips to East Africa

    4. Manage US Operations and Team Development

    • Build, mentor, and develop the US staff team

    • Maintain excellent  operational policies, procedures, and human resource practices

    • Conduct performance evaluations and ensure staff have clear goals and professional development opportunities

    • Oversee day-to-day US office operations

    5. Partner in Strategic Planning and Financial Management

    • Co-lead strategic planning with the East Africa Regional Director and Board

    • Develop and manage the annual US operations and fundraising budget

    • Monitor financial health and ensure operations remain within budget

    • Work with the Chief Financial Officer on audit processes and financial reporting

    • Provide Quarterly financial and operational reports to the Board

    6. Support and Collaborate with Africa Leadership

    • Partner closely with the East Africa Regional Director to ensure alignment between US and Africa operations

    • Provide support for Africa-led programs through fundraising and communications

    • Facilitate information flow and collaboration across the organization

    • Oversee coordination of mission team visits to Africa programs

    7. Ensure Strong Board Relations

    • Keep the Board fully informed through quarterly reports and board meeting presentations

    • Ensure Board Chair and Executive Committee are updated on critical developments

    • Implement board-authorized plans and policies

    • Work with Board to identify fundraising opportunities and prospective donors

    8. Maintain Industry Knowledge

    • Stay current on trends in Christian nonprofit leadership and international development

    • Network with peer organizations serving vulnerable children and communities

    • Bring innovative ideas and best practices to HopeCo

  • Essential:

    • Committed Christian with personal faith in Jesus Christ, capable of providing spiritual leadership

    • Full agreement with HopeCo's mission, vision, values, and Statement of Faith

    • Bachelor's degree (Master's degree preferred)

    • 7-10+ years in nonprofit leadership, with significant fundraising experience

    • Proven track record building and leading high-performing teams

    • Excellence in donor relations and major gift fundraising

    • Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills

    • Strategic thinker with ability to develop and implement plans

    • Strong organizational and financial management capabilities

    • Experience managing annual budgets of $700,000+

    • Ability to work effectively across cultures and with remote teams

    • Strong time-management skills and ability to thrive under pressure

    Highly Desirable:

    • Experience in international development or missions organizations

    • Prior board experience

    • Cross-cultural service experience

    • Pastoral or ministry leadership background

    • Ability to create compelling written content (articles, reports, appeals)

    • Proficiency with digital marketing tools and platforms

  • Character Requirements:

    • Person of integrity with strong character references

    • Compassionate heart for serving vulnerable children and families

    • Humble team leader who listens well and resolves conflict constructively

    • Creative problem-solver who embraces change

    • Lifelong learner committed to personal and professional growth

    Location & Travel:

    • Remote position (US-based)

    • Regular travel for donor meetings, speaking engagements, and church partnerships

    • Travel to East Africa 2-3 times per year (up to 45 days annually)

    • Must pass criminal background check

    • $90,000 Negotiable Based on Experience & Qualifications

    • Healthcare stipend

    • PTO: 15 days first year, then 20 days

    • 10 Paid holidays

    • Flexible work schedule

    • 403b + matching

    • Professional development opportunities

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Application Process

Thank you for your interest in joining the HopeCo team. Before applying, please take time to thoroughly review our mission, programs, and the position requirements. Understanding our work and this role will help you determine if this opportunity aligns with your skills and calling.

How to Apply

  • All application materials are required to be submitted as a single link to a downloadable folder. See below for application requirements and submission form.

  • Ensure that the links are publicly shareable and accessible. If your file is password-protected, include the password in your submission so we can access your materials.

We value thoughtfulness in the application process and look forward to getting to know you better. Please note that incomplete or generic applications will not be considered.

  1. Resume

Submit a current resume (PDF format) including:

  • Complete contact information

  • Professional references (minimum of 3)

  • Relevant work experience with specific accomplishments

  • Educational background

  • Any applicable certifications or specialized training

2. Cover Letter & Written Response

Your Cover letter should include:

  • Introduce yourself and your interest in HopeCo specifically

  • Explain why you believe this role is a strong mutual fit

  • Address your alignment with HopeCo's mission and values

Additionally, please provide a written response to the following:

  1. What is your expected salary or range?

  2. "Think of two situations when you represented an organization in a public setting (fundraising event, conference, topical speech, individual donor meetings or group of major donors et al.) Describe the context, how you prepared, what approach you took, and list the measurable outcomes. What did you learn from these experiences? Note, at least one of the examples should be specific to fundraising."

3. Communications Portfolio Sample

Provide one example and explanation of a complete marketing or communications piece you directly created or oversaw. This should demonstrate integrated written content and visual design.

Examples may include:

  • Website (URL or PDF/screenshots)

  • Email campaign or newsletter

  • Catalog, brochure, or fundraising appeal

  • Annual report

  • Social media campaign series (5-7 coordinated posts)

Required description:

  • Project context: Purpose, audience, and goals

  • Your specific role: Responsibilities in copywriting, design direction, vendor management, etc.

  • Team collaboration: How you coordinated with others

  • Measurable results: Impact metrics, funds raised, engagement data, or other outcomes

Choose a sample that showcases your ability to create compelling, mission-driven content that inspires action.

4. Video Interview Responses

Please record video responses to the following six questions. Videos may be recorded on your phone or webcam and submitted as separate files:

Submission Form