Executive Director

Position Description

Responsible for providing overall leadership for and management of Next Chapter La Crosse. Works with staff and assures that plans and program are developed and implemented professionally. Formulates and executes fundraising plans and budgets consistent with and supportive of the directives of the Board of Directors. Develops, oversees and is responsible for the organization's consistent achievement of its goals and mission. Ensures that Christian relationships exist with participants, volunteers, and works to see that their needs are met. Directs, trains, and appraises personnel.

Responsibilities

Reports to the Board of Directors and carries out the vision and mission established by the Board within the established budget

• Keeps the board fully informed on Next Chapter’s programs, operations and staffing.
• Assures communication is complete, timely, and thorough between Board and staff.

Fundraising and Donor Relations

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies and campaigns to support the organization's financial objectives and sustainability.
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and grant opportunities to secure financial support for programs, projects, and operations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing donors and supporters, providing stewardship and personalized engagement to ensure ongoing support and retention.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and staff to align fundraising efforts with organizational priorities and strategic initiatives.
• Lead and oversee special events, fundraising campaigns, and donor recognition programs to enhance visibility, engagement, and philanthropic support.
• Provide fundraising leadership and direction to staff, volunteers and Board, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Research and analyze fundraising trends, best practices, and donor preferences to inform strategy development and decision-making.
• Prepare and present regular reports to the Board of Directors and stakeholders on fundraising activities, progress, and outcomes.
• Represent the organization at community events, networking opportunities, and meetings with donors, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, ethical standards, and best practices in fundraising and donor relations.
• Develops appreciation programs and communicates gratitude to all who give to Next Chapter. 
• Promotes Next Chapter to Churches, organizations, and the community at large.

Staff Leadership & Supervision

• Provides spiritual leadership to Next Chapter ministry staff, volunteers and participants
• Assures staff are aligned to and work toward the mission and values of Next Chapter
• Maintains a climate, which attracts, keeps, and motivates a staff of quality people   
• Overseas the recruitment, employment, and release of paid staff.

Program Oversight (see attached program description)  

• Assures programs agree with goal, mission and faith statement of Next Chapter.     
• Oversees our Reentry Navigation Program which includes walk along guidance and our customized reentry planning process.     
• Oversees our Discipleship Home Residential
• Program which includes our six-month holistic Christian living program, community building and full-time employment components.
• Establishes sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with community groups and organizations.       

Operations and Administration Oversight

• Oversight the delegated tasks of Operations and Administration including office operations,financial management, bookkeeping, recordkeeping, supplies and maintaining a safe working environment for staff and service population.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent experience. (degree in nonprofit management, business administration, fundraising, or related field, Master's degree preferred).
• Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with a passion for making a positive difference in the community.
• Thorough understanding of the Bible to the extent that all ministry, relationships, and programs are led in alignment with it. Formal Bible and ministry training desired.
• Desire to develop a basic knowledge of crime culture and the criminal justice system.
• Leads in a Servant Leadership style.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, volunteers, and donors towards achieving program and fundraising goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationship with participants, volunteers, the Board, and the general public, build rapport, negotiate effectively, and communicate the organization's mission and impact to diverse audiences.
• Ability to resolve conflicts in a professional, tactful manner.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative fundraising strategies and initiatives.

Salary

Full-time $65,000-$85,000 based on experience.