Executive Director

Executive Director

Community Mediation & Restorative Services

Minnesota | Full-Time

Organizational Overview

Community Mediation & Restorative Services (CMRS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering stronger, more equitable communities through mediation, restorative justice practices, conflict resolution, and community engagement. With an annual operating budget of approximately $1.4 million, CMRS partners with courts, schools, local governments, and community organizations to provide accessible, culturally responsive services that repair harm, build understanding, and prevent conflict.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of CMRS, responsible for advancing the organization’s mission, ensuring financial sustainability, and overseeing high-quality program delivery. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED leads a team of staff and volunteers, cultivates partnerships, and represents CMRS as a visible leader in mediation and restorative practices across Minnesota.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Partner with the Board to develop and implement strategic plans aligned with CMRS’s mission and community needs
• Provide visionary leadership in restorative justice and community mediation
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities to expand impact and services

Organizational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including programs, administration, and human resources
• Lead, mentor, and support a diverse team of staff and volunteers
• Foster an inclusive, equitable, and collaborative organizational culture

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual budget (~$1.4M)
• Ensure strong financial controls, reporting, and compliance
• Diversify revenue streams, including grants, contracts, donations, and earned income

Fundraising & Development

• Lead fundraising strategy and execution
• Cultivate relationships with foundations, government funders, donors, and partners
• Support grant writing, major gifts, and donor stewardship efforts

Community & External Relations

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for CMRS
• Build and maintain partnerships with courts, schools, local governments, and community groups
• Advocate for restorative justice practices and mediation at local and state levels

Board Relations

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to support governance and strategic oversight
• Provide regular updates on organizational performance and impact
• Assist in board development and engagement

Qualifications

Required

• Proven leadership experience in a nonprofit, public sector, or related field
• Strong commitment to restorative justice, mediation, and community-centered approaches
• Experience managing budgets, staff, and organizational operations
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and partnership development
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred

• Experience in mediation, restorative practices, or conflict resolution
• Knowledge of Minnesota’s nonprofit, legal, or social service landscape
• Experience working with diverse communities and advancing equity and inclusion
• Advanced degree in public administration, nonprofit management, law, social work, or related field

Leadership Competencies

• Strategic and systems thinking
• Collaborative and relationship-driven leadership
• Cultural humility and commitment to equity
• Financial acumen and operational excellence
• Adaptability and innovation

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $110,000 – $140,000 (commensurate with experience)
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, retirement, PTO, etc.)
• Professional development opportunities

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their interest and qualifications to View email address on click.appcast.io or apply on Indeed.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Background Check

CMRS is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair, inclusive, and respectful hiring practices. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and make employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check, conducted in accordance with applicable law. A prior conviction or record does not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment. We review background check information thoughtfully and in connection with the duties of the role.