Executive Director

Executive Director – Friends of the Children – San Diego San Diego, California Friends of the Children is a nationally recognized nonprofit that works to impact generational change by empowering youth who face the greatest obstacles through long‑term relationships with paid professional mentors. For more than three decades, its model has produced measurable outcomes for children and families across the country. Friends of the Children–San Diego is launching with strong momentum. Over the past 18 months, national and local leaders have established a solid foundation for long‑term success, secured seed capital, and cultivated relationships with philanthropic, civic, and nonprofit leaders throughout the region. Friends of the Children–San Diego will enroll children ages 4 to 6 and their caregivers, initially focusing on former foster youth who are parenting and families at risk of child welfare involvement. The chapter will operate as an independent 501(c)(3), supported by Friends of the Children National, and will benefit from a proven operating model, extensive leadership resources, and a network of successful Executive Directors. We seek a highly relational, entrepreneurial, and community‑centered Executive Director to lead the launch and long‑term growth of this new chapter. As the organization’s chief executive, fundraiser, strategic leader, and ambassador, the Executive Director will build trusted relationships across San Diego County, expand philanthropic investment, hire and support the founding staff team, and work closely with the Board of Directors and National leadership. The role requires excellence in program delivery, financial stewardship, and organizational capacity building. Key responsibilities include: Act as the primary fundraising champion, cultivating major donors, foundations, corporations, and public funding opportunities. Develop and execute strategic plans, annual operating plans, budgets, growth initiatives, and risk management strategies in partnership with the Board and National leadership. Ensure fidelity to the Friends of the Children model while strengthening visibility and capacity to meet the needs of children and families. Recruit, develop, and lead a high‑performing staff team, fostering a collaborative, children‑first culture. Ideal qualifications: Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred). At least ten years of progressively responsible executive leadership experience in nonprofit or related environments. Strong fundraising record, including experience securing major gifts and diversifying revenue streams. Deep appreciation for child development, youth outcomes, and long‑term mentoring models. Executive presence, credibility with donors and community stakeholders, and proven ability to build trusted relationships. Strategic, collaborative, and empowering leadership style with experience across fundraising, operations, finance, strategy, and people management. Salary range: $145,000 – $165,000, including incentive compensation. Friends of the Children offers a benefits package and a culture that values collaboration, belonging, professional growth, and work‑life harmony. #J-18808-Ljbffr Friends of the Children - San Diego