Executive Director

The mission of the Writing Coaches of Montana (WCM) non-profit organization is to help Montana students grow as confident, competent writers by mentoring students and supporting teachers through trained community volunteers. We envision a future in which all Montana students think critically and communicate effectively through writing. Our values are: Collaboration: We partner with educators, community members, and fellow organizations to implement our mission. Community: We foster a sense of community among all of our partners and support community involvement in education. Lifelong Learning: We embrace a growth mindset, with coaches and students learning together throughout their lifetimes. Respect: We promote mutual respect between learners of all ages and support diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning for all. At the invitation of public school teachers, WCM works one-on-one with students in grades 4–12 during the school day on writing assignments across disciplines. LOCATION WCM serves communities in Missoula, Ravalli, Lake, and Flathead counties in Western Montana. Candidates must currently reside in one of these counties or be willing to relocate to the area. POSITION SUMMARY The Executive Director (ED) provides strategic, operational, and organizational leadership for WCM. The ED oversees programs, fundraising, communications, volunteer engagement, and organizational development while working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, educators, donors, and community partners. This is a highly collaborative and hands-on leadership role in a growing nonprofit organization. The Executive Director represents WCM publicly and helps advance the organization’s mission, sustainability, and long-term impact across Montana communities. The Executive Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and supervises staff, contractors, interns, and AmeriCorps members as applicable. ANNUAL SALARY $56,000–$60,000 Depending on experience and qualifications GENERAL RESPONSBILITIES Organizational Leadership & Operations (30%) Provide day-to-day operational leadership for the organization in alignment with WCM’s mission and strategic goals Support implementation of Board priorities, strategic planning efforts, and organizational policies Maintain organizational systems, records, and internal communications Partner with the Treasurer, bookkeeper, and Board to support financial oversight, budgeting, and reporting Respond to and resolve time-sensitive or unanticipated challenges as they arise, ensuring continuity of programs and operations Support Board meetings, committee work, and organizational planning Program Management (25%) Oversee execution and evaluation of WCM programming across partner schools and communities Collaborate with coordinators, educators, and school administrators to maintain effective coaching partnerships Support program growth and continuous improvement Maintain relationships with school districts, educators, and community partners Supervise and support coordinators, interns, and contractors as applicable Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven organizational culture Support onboarding, communication, and ongoing engagement for volunteers and staff Lead fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, sponsorship outreach, and community giving campaigns Maintain and strengthen relationships with donors, foundations, and community supporters Support long-term organizational sustainability through strategic development efforts Communications & Community Engagement (10%) Serve as a public representative and advocate for WCM Oversee organizational communications, including newsletters, social media, and promotional materials Oversee and maintain the WCM website, including content updates, structure, and alignment with communications and outreach goals Build relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and other partners Represent WCM at community events, trainings, presentations, and outreach opportunities Strategic Growth (5%) Collaborate with the Board to support strategic planning and long-term organizational development Identify opportunities for program expansion, partnerships, and increased community impact Support program evaluation, reporting, and continuous improvement This job description is intended to describe the general scope and responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties or qualifications. Responsibilities may evolve based on organizational needs. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in education, writing, communications, nonprofit leadership, or a related field Strong written and verbal communication skills Nonprofit management experience, including organizational leadership and program coordination Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently Experience with budgeting, financial oversight, or organizational administration Demonstrated fundraising, donor engagement, or grant-writing experience Proficiency with common digital tools and platforms, including Google Workspace, social media, spreadsheets, and web-based communication tools Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with educators, volunteers, donors, board members, and community partners PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience working in education, writing, and/or youth serving organizations Strategic planning or organizational development experience Knowledge of Montana schools, education systems, and writing instruction Familiarity with one or more communities in Western Montana and the region’s community networks SUPERVISORY CONTROLS The Board of Directors establishes organizational priorities and provides strategic oversight for the Executive Director. The Executive Director works collaboratively with the Board to establish goals, timelines, and priorities while independently managing day-to-day operations and organizational leadership. The Executive Director is responsible for coordinating with stakeholders, resolving operational challenges, and keeping the Board informed of significant developments affecting the organization. The Board conducts an annual performance review of the Executive Director. LEADERSHIP ENVIRONMENT This role requires adaptability, sound judgment, and strong independent leadership. The Executive Director must balance strategic planning with day-to-day operations while navigating evolving funding landscapes, program needs, and organizational priorities. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, relationship management, and the ability to lead staff and volunteers in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position is primarily sedentary but regularly requires travel to schools, meetings, trainings, and community events. Duties may include driving, walking, standing, bending, and carrying light materials or supplies. WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed from a variety of places, including a home office, schools, and community meeting spaces. The position requires travel throughout WCM’s service area for fundraising, program oversight, and collaboration with staff, estimated at approximately 15–20 days per year. BENEFITS Flexible work environment: Work from home, with flexibility to manage your schedule around organizational needs and commitments Paid leave: 30 days of combined paid time off and sick leave per year Paid holidays: Federal holidays off, in addition to annual paid leave Meaningful work: The opportunity to lead a mission-driven nonprofit supporting Montana students and teachers through writing As a small nonprofit, WCM does not currently offer employer-sponsored health insurance or a retirement plan. TO APPLY Email your resume and cover letter to Krista Hodges at View email address on click.appcast.io Writing Coaches of Montana is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences and encourage anyone who is excited about our mission to apply. If you meet most of the qualifications but don't check every box, we still encourage you to apply. We value the unique perspectives and skills that each person brings to this work. #J-18808-Ljbffr