Executive Director

Job Description

Job Description

Executive Director

Wishes & More — Minneapolis, MN | Full-Time

About Wishes & More

Wishes & More is a Minnesota-based children’s charity that creates extraordinary experiences for children with terminal or life‐threatening conditions. We grant wishes, provide scholarships, grant memorials, financial gifts and support families—bringing hopeful hearts, happy memories, and assistance to those who love them.

Position Summary

Wishes & More seeks a mission-driven Executive Director to serve as the organization’s chief executive, advance strategic priorities, grow sustainable fundraising, and ensure operational excellence. The ED will partner closely with the Board of Directors, lead a small but high-impact staff and volunteer base, act as a primary external ambassador, and ensure programs (including wish experiences) are delivered to the highest degree possible.

You’ll be Accountable For:

· Leadership & Strategy : Partner with the Board to develop and execute strategic and operational plans; translate goals into measurable priorities and accountability.

· Fundraising & external relations : Partner with development team to execute a diversified fundraising strategy, cultivate and steward donors and partners, serve as a public face for Wishes & More.

· Operations & team leadership : Oversee day-to-day operations; hire, lead, develop and retain staff and volunteers; foster a positive, mission-driven culture.

· Financial management: Build and manage the annual budget with the Board; ensure financial oversight and long-term sustainability.

· Program quality & impact: Ensure wish programs and other services align with the mission.

· Governance & compliance: Maintain nonprofit best practices and regulatory compliance; support Board development and committee effectiveness.

What You Bring to the Role:

· Passion for this organization’s mission.

· 7–10+ years of progressive leadership experience, ideally in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations.

· Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and resource management.

· Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

· Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage performance, and build organizational culture.

· Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors.

· Strategic thinker with hands-on leadership style.

· Strong ownership and accountability for results.

· High emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire others.

· This role requires the ability to work occasional weekend and evening hours.

While not required, we’d especially like to meet you if your background includes:

· Experience in small to mid-sized nonprofits.

· Familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRM systems.

Why Join Us?

· Lead an organization that creates life-changing memories for children and families.

· Opportunity to shape strategic growth, fundraising, and program impact.

· Collaborative Board, passionate staff, and engaged volunteer community.

· Retirement plan with matching contribution

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your leadership and fundraising experience and why you’re excited about wishes & more. Please note that a cover letter is REQUIRED . Applications accepted until July 24.

Wishes & More enhances the life of a child fighting a terminal or life-threatening condition by providing extraordinary experiences including wishes, scholarships, memorials and more.

Company Description

Wishes & More enhances the life of a child fighting a terminal or life-threatening condition by providing extraordinary experiences including wishes, scholarships, memorials and more.