Executive Director
Job Description
The Position
HopeCo is a non-profit with the vision of “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 Regional Director for Africa to advance HopeCo's mission and ensure the US team effectively supports program excellence in East Africa. The US Director reports to the Board of Directors.
About Us
Check out the website site to learn about our team, impact, 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
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1. Cultivate a Christ-Centered Organizational Culture
Model HopeCo's values: Christ-centered, pursuing excellence, building one another up, and learning together
Champion spiritual leadership through devotions, prayer, and encouraging staff spiritual growth
Foster a high-performance culture that attracts, retains, and motivates talented team members
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
Establish sound 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 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 Finance Director on audit processes and financial reporting
Provide monthly financial and operational reports to the Board
6. Support and Collaborate with Africa Leadership
Partner closely with the 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
Coordinate mission team visits to Africa programs
7. Ensure Strong Board Relations
Keep the Board fully informed through monthly 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
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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
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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 90 days annually)
Must pass criminal background check
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Full-time salary based on experience
Healthcare stipend
PTO days (To Come)
Paid holidays (To Come)
Flexible work schedule
403b + up to 6% match (Confirm)
Professional development opportunities
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
We value thoughtfulness in our application process. While this requires focused preparation time, we've designed it to be efficient and help us get to know you better. Please note that incomplete or generic applications will not be considered.
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:
"Describe a specific situation where you served as a primary spokesperson for an organization. Detail the context, your preparation process, the approach you took, and the measurable outcomes. What did you learn from this experience?"
3. Video Interview Responses
Please record brief video responses to the following questions. Videos may be recorded on your phone or webcam and submitted as separate files:





