Chief Executive Officer and President Position Available In Buncombe, North Carolina

Chief Executive Officer and President WNC Bridge Foundation Asheville, NC 28803

Job Posting:

President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location:

Western North Carolina Organization:

WNC Bridge Foundation Reports To:

Board of Directors Application Deadline:

July 9, 2025

About WNC Bridge Foundation:

WNC Bridge Foundation is a trusted philanthropic organization committed to improving the lives of individuals and communities across Western North Carolina. Through impactful grantmaking, meaningful partnerships, and community-informed initiatives, we bridge gaps in healthcare, youth development, and essential services, ensuring equitable access and opportunity for all.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced, visionary, and community-focused leader to serve as our next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO will be responsible for leading the Foundation’s strategic direction, operations, external engagement, and overall organizational impact. This is an extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of a mission-driven organization that plays a vital role in addressing the evolving needs of the region.

Key Responsibilities:

Executive Leadership & Governance

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and attend all meetings
• Lead strategic planning aligned with regional priorities and community needs
• Ensure organizational compliance and sound governance practices Financial Oversight
• Oversee the financial health of the organization, including budgets, audits, and investment policies
• Approve or manage key financial and operational agreements, including loans, contracts, and employee compensation matters Operational Management
• Partner with the Operations Director to oversee day-to-day operations
• Lead internal coordination and staff development initiatives
• Ensure efficient communication and planning across departments External Relations & Community Engagement
• Represent the Foundation in regional, state, and national philanthropic forums
• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, donors, and partners
• Participate in collaborative community boards and public events Fundraising & Philanthropic Strategy
• Lead major donor cultivation and fundraising strategy development
• Work closely with the development team to meet and exceed fundraising goals
• Strengthen and expand the Foundation’s philanthropic reach and impact Grantmaking
• Play a pivotal role in grantmaking, acting as a strategic leader, program expert and fiscal manager
• In partnership with the board, set the foundation’s overall strategic direction and vision, to ensure grantmaking priorities are followed
• Provide oversight of the foundation’s resources, including the allocation of funds for grantmaking
• Participate in the foundation’s investment strategy to ensure that investment income supports grantmaking
• Work closely with the board and staff to ensure that the foundation’s grantmaking activities are effective and aligned with its mission
• Work closely with the Program Officer for Grantmaking to review, evaluate and recommend Non-profits alignment with the basic focus areas of the foundation
• Review recommendations from the NOW grant committee and gives recommendations for approval or disapproval
• Participate with the Grant Committee in awarding the grants

Qualifications:

• Proven executive leadership experience in the nonprofit or philanthropic sector
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing complex budgets
• Effective relationship builder with excellent communication skills
• Demonstrated success in team development, fundraising, and strategic planning
• Deep understanding of grantmaking and community-centered initiatives
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred

Salary:

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.
• Voluntary Life, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer contribution.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and 3 paid holidays per year.
• Continuing Education opportunities.
• Wellness Incentives.

Why Join WNC Bridge Foundation? This is more than a leadership role, it’s a chance to drive meaningful change in a region with cultural diversity and growth potential. Join a dedicated team and an engaged board committed to equal access, innovation, and lasting community impact.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$170,000.00 – $220,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Schedule:

Day shift

Work Location:

In person