Executive Director

Organization Overview

Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota is a nonpartisan, citizen-led nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Minnesota’s child welfare system so that children are safe and able to reach their full potential. We advocate for improvements in child protection through legislative action, public education, and partnerships with stakeholders across the state while maintaining awareness of changes and patterns occurring in other parts of the country.

Position Summary

Safe Passage is seeking a passionate and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter. The Executive Director will serve as the public face and driving force behind Safe Passage’s mission, maintaining a strong child-centric focus in an environment of complex political and social dynamics. This role requires strategic leadership across advocacy, public engagement, development, and nonprofit operations.

Core Competencies and Attributes

• Deep commitment to child-centered welfare, protection, and systemic improvement changes through the legislative process
• Strong alignment with and commitment to supporting Board priorities and working with allied groups
• Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit management, advocacy, or public policy
• Strong legislative strategy skills and political acumen
• Proven ability to fundraise and build donor relationships
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working with diverse communities and building inclusive partnerships
• Comfort managing a small staff and working independently
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work in alignment with the Board of Directors and other constituent groups (Minnesota Coalition for Child Safety, etc.)

Key Responsibilities

Advocacy & Legislative Relations

• In partnership with the Board and other stakeholders, develop and implement legislative agenda to strengthen Minnesota’s child welfare systems
• Testify at the Capitol on short notice, when needed, or help to prepare testimony for others
• Build and sustain relationships with state and county elected officials, agency leaders, and policymakers
• Work with lobbying team to track child welfare legislation and coordinate grassroots engagement with volunteers and supporters, including annual day at the Capitol
• Communicate and collaborate with like minded organizations, especially those representing diverse and underrepresented communities

Public Awareness & Media Relations

• Serve as a public spokesperson for Safe Passage
• Increase visibility of child protection issues through strategic media outreach and public speaking
• Oversee the creation and dissemination of content including weekly emails/blogs and social media, emphasizing local data and research to support our policy positions; consider other types of content
• Coordinate events aimed at drawing media attention as well as public support

Fundraising & Development

• Lead or oversee fundraising strategy to support and expand Safe Passage’s impact
• Plan and execute fundraising events such as annual breakfasts, public events, and year end campaigns
• Cultivate and steward relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors
• Research, write, and manage grant proposals and reporting, as needed

Management & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including staff or contractor supervision, financial management, and regulatory compliance
• Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer
• Collaborate and partner with the Board of Directors to fulfill governance responsibilities

Board Development

• Engage and support the Board of Directors in strategic planning and organizational development
• Help identify and recruit diverse and skilled board members to broaden representation and reach
• Facilitate effective board meetings and committee work

Research & Special Projects

• Oversee and direct special research initiatives, including Safe Passage’s annual Child Fatality Report
• Identify and pursue new research projects that align with the organization’s mission and advocacy goals

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public administration, law, social work, public policy, or related field preferred
• Minimum 5–7 years of leadership experience, preferably in the nonprofit or public advocacy sector
• Familiarity with child welfare systems, public policy, or related fields highly desirable
• Proven success in fundraising, coalition building, and nonprofit management

Work Conditions & Compensation

• Full-time exempt position; flexibility required during legislative sessions (some evenings/weekends)
• Salary: $100,000 – $120,000 annually, depending on experience
• Benefits include:
  • Health care coverage or monthly health stipend
  • SIMPLE IRA plan with up to 3% employer match
  • Paid time off

To Apply

Please submit a resume and a detailed cover letter addressing your interest in the mission of Safe Passage and how your experience aligns with this role to: contactus@safepassageforchildren.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Benefits include:

• Health care coverage or monthly health stipend
• SIMPLE IRA plan with up to 3% employer match
• Paid time off