Position Summary
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the senior leader and public face of the Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC). This individual is responsible for strategic leadership, fundraising and donor engagement, community partnerships, and operational excellence.
The CEO will lead CFFC’s efforts to expand philanthropic assets, with a particular focus on major and planned giving, while strengthening the foundation’s impact throughout Fayette County. Working in partnership with the Board of Directors, staff, donors, and community stakeholders, the CEO will ensure that CFFC fulfills its mission of inspiring charitable giving, supporting nonprofits, and fostering positive community transformation.
Key Responsibilities
This job description outlines a broad range of responsibilities and qualifications that define the role. We encourage interested candidates to apply even if they don’t meet every listed requirement—if you bring relevant experience, enthusiasm, and a commitment to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
1. Fundraising and Donor Engagement
- Lead CFFC’s fundraising strategy, in partnership with staff and the Board of Directors, to grow its charitable assets, focusing on major and planned giving,
- Cultivate relationships with high-net-worth individuals, professional advisors, businesses, and other philanthropists to increase unrestricted and endowed funds
- Develop and implement donor stewardship programs, ensuring fundholders are actively engaged with CFFC’s mission
- Oversee marketing, outreach, and public relations efforts to communicate the value of philanthropy in Fayette County
2. Community Leadership and Partnerships
- Position CFFC as a trusted leader and convener on key community issues
- Strengthen strategic alliances with nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, and civic leaders to foster collaborative impact
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and represent CFFC at public events, speaking engagements, and community meetings to advocate for local philanthropy
- Identify and respond to emerging community needs, working with stakeholders to develop funding solutions
3. Organizational Leadership and Strategic Planning
- Develop and execute CFFC’s long-term strategic vision, in partnership with the Board of Directors
- Oversee financial stewardship and operational effectiveness, ensuring the foundation operates with integrity and sustainability
- Lead and develop a high-performing team, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities
- Ensure compliance with National Standards for US Community Foundations® and best practices in philanthropy
- Monitor key performance indicators to evaluate CFFC’s success in fundraising, community impact, and operational efficiency
4. Financial and Operational Management
- Oversee CFFC’s financial health, including the foundation’s investment portfolio (in partnership with the Finance Director and outside investment management advisors), operating budget, and fund distributions
- Implement policies and procedures to support organizational efficiency, transparency, and donor confidence
- Identify opportunities to enhance operational effectiveness, including technology investments and infrastructure improvements
Qualifications and Experience
Required Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in fundraising and donor development
- Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage donors, corporate partners, and community leaders
- Experience leading strategic planning and organizational development for a mission-driven organization
- Excellent public speaking and communication skills, with the ability to articulate CFFC’s mission and vision
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated success in major and planned giving, with a track record of growing philanthropic assets
- Deep understanding of community foundations, philanthropy, and nonprofit governance
- Financial acumen, with experience in managing budgets, endowments, and investment strategies
- Experience working in a community foundation or donor-advised fund environment
- Knowledge of Fayette County’s economic, social, and philanthropic landscape
- Familiarity with nonprofit tax laws, grantmaking policies, and donor stewardship best practices
Reporting Structure
- The CEO reports directly to the Board of Directors and collaborates with staff, committees, and external advisors to achieve CFFC’s strategic goals.
Work Schedule and Location
- This is a full-time, in-person position based at the CFFC office, with the expectation that some evening and weekend activities will be required to engage with individuals and organizations across the county and build meaningful relationships.
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience, ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 per year plus benefits
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- A cover letter outlining their experience in fundraising, leadership, and community engagement
- A current resume detailing relevant qualifications and achievements
- Three professional references (name, title, relationship, and contact information)
Application Deadline: June 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM ET
Submit Applications to: CEOSearchCFFC@gmail.com
CFFC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
