Job Details

Executive Director - Charitable Foundations

The Cotton Foundation is a Houston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring hope to children and families affected by disasters, illnesses, and other life-altering events. Through the support of generous donors, volunteers, and partners, we provide critical resources and services to help rebuild lives and create long-lasting positive impact for those in need. The Foundation focuses on creating a compassionate community that works together to support the healing process for families during their most difficult times.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will provide dynamic leadership and strategic direction to The Cotton Foundation, ensuring the mission, vision, and values of the organization are effectively implemented and operationalized. The ED will work closely with the Founder, Board of Directors, staff, donors, and volunteers to strengthen the foundation's programs, fundraising efforts, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will have substantial leadership experience in a similar nonprofit or hospitality-based setting, demonstrating success in fundraising, strategic planning, team management, and community involvement.

Leadership and Strategic Vision

• Lead the organization's development and execution of strategic goals, objectives, and long-term planning to advance The Cotton Foundation's mission.
• Foster a strong organizational culture that supports the Foundation's values of compassion, collaboration, and excellence.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, cultivating relationships with key stakeholders such as donors, partners, government entities, and the community.
• Inspire, motivate, and manage a high-performing staff, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities to ensure team success.

Fundraising and Development

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies, leveraging major donor relationships, corporate partnerships, grants, and individual contributions to meet and exceed annual fundraising goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and other key funders to ensure sustainable and diversified revenue streams.
• Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, campaigns, and donor outreach initiatives, ensuring an engaging experience for all supporters.
• Develop strategies for donor retention, recognition, and stewardship to cultivate long-term relationships with current and prospective donors.

Community Engagement and Partnership Building

• Cultivate strong relationships with local community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance The Cotton Foundation's reach and impact.
• Collaborate with hospitals, social service agencies, schools, and other entities that assist children and families affected by disasters and illnesses.
• Lead outreach efforts to raise awareness about the Foundation's mission and programs, engaging with local media, community influencers, and the general public.
• Represent The Cotton Foundation in public speaking engagements, community events, and conferences to enhance visibility and promote partnerships.

Financial Management and Operational Oversight

• Oversee the Foundation's day-to-day operations, ensuring programs and services are delivered efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of those served.
• Ensure financial sustainability by managing budgets, developing financial reports, and monitoring cash flow to maintain the organization's fiscal health.
• Work with the Board of Directors and staff to ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and tax requirements.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services and recommend changes or improvements as needed.

Board and Stakeholder Relations

• Provide regular updates to the Founder and Board of Directors regarding the Foundation's progress toward strategic goals, fundraising outcomes, and financial status.
• Collaborate with the Board to ensure effective governance, facilitating meetings, and supporting Board development.
• Strengthen the partnership between the Board and staff to foster a united approach to organization.

Why You'll Love It Here

Minimum of 10 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, preferably within a foundation, hospitality-based organization, or similar disaster relief or healthcare environment. Proven success in fundraising, community engagement, and leading teams in a mission-driven organization.

Strong and inspirational leadership abilities with the capacity to build and manage effective teams. Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and organizational management.

Proven track record in securing funding from a variety of sources, including individual donors, corporations, foundations, and government entities. Experience in major gift cultivation and grant writing is essential.

A demonstrated passion for community service and an understanding of the challenges faced by children and families in need. Experience building partnerships and working collaboratively with community groups and local government entities.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Comfortable with public speaking, representing the Foundation in various settings, and advocating for its mission with diverse audiences.

Ability to manage the financial health of the organization, including creating and managing budgets, preparing financial reports, and ensuring compliance with all financial and legal regulations.

A bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Social Work, Business Administration, etc.).

Strong network within nonprofit or hospitality sectors. Experience in a family-centered organization or one focused on children and health issues. Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders and navigate complex, sometimes sensitive, situations. High emotional intelligence and strong problem-solving skills.

Salary and Benefits

Competitive, based on experience. Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off (PTO); retirement plan options; professional development opportunities.

The Cotton Foundation fosters an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive work culture. The role may require occasional evening or weekend events and travel.

Our Values

At Cotton, we value Action Orientation, Collaboration, and Accountability. We're seeking someone who communicates effectively, makes data-driven decisions, and thrives in our fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Disclaimer: This Job Description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent(s). It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent(s) may be asked to perform other duties as requested.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled