So You Want to Be a… Nonprofit Executive Director   

What will I be doing all day?

Executive directors of nonprofits oversee the work being carried out by the various departments within their organizations. Beyond managing administration activities, they are also in charge of long-term planning. This includes:

1. Overseeing operations: This includes creating policy, hiring and training employees, developing programs, setting organizational goals, and developing long-term strategy. Executive directors are also responsible for communicating with the organization’s board of directors.
2. Financial management: This includes creating a budget and ensuring it’s adhered to. They’re also in charge of fundraising and creating relationships with donors.
3. Public relations: As the public face of the organization, executive directors are in charge of marketing efforts and are often expected to organize and attend publicity events, communicate with the media, and direct the organization’s marketing efforts.
4. Compliance: Executive directors are responsible for ensuring that the organization is compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

What kind of career options do I have?

An executive director can serve in a variety of nonprofit organizations, such as schools, tzedakah organizations, political organizations, public clinics or hospitals, professional associations, museums, and many more.

What kind of training do I need?

Many organizations require their executive directors to hold a master’s degree or doctorate in public administration, business administration, or a similarly relevant field. Some executive directors may also take coursework in fields specific to their organization — for example, health care administration or educational administration. Many executive directors also find it helpful to take leadership training programs to develop their management skills.

Do I have the personality for it?

A good executive director has excellent leadership skills, confidence, and solid people skills. He’s also a good communicator and listener, compassionate, organized, good at problem-solving, flexible, can see the big picture, and knows how to both manage and delegate to employees.