A Non-Profit Executive Director provides senior level leadership to a non-profit organization focused on policy, political advocacy, or social program development.
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive leader of the Breast Cancer Network of Western New York (BCN), providing strategic leadership to advance the organization's mission, strengthen financial sustainability, expand community impact, and elevate BCN's position as the leading breast cancer support organization serving Western New York. Working in close partnership with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for organizational leadership, fundraising, external relations, strategic planning, and staff leadership. The Executive Director serves as BCN's primary ambassador and relationship builder, cultivating partnerships, expanding funding opportunities, increasing community awareness, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization. This position is currently part-time and is expected to evolve as organizational capacity and resources grow. BCN intends to provide an overlap and transition period with the retiring Executive Director to support knowledge transfer, relationship continuity, and organizational stability.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership Lead implementation of the organization's mission, vision, and strategic priorities. Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and execute strategies that strengthen organizational sustainability and impact. Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, community engagement, and service expansion. Monitor trends, emerging needs, and opportunities relevant to individuals affected by breast cancer. Ensure BCN remains responsive, mission-focused, and positioned for long-term success. Fundraising and Resource Development Serve as the organization's lead fundraiser and relationship builder. Develop and implement annual fundraising strategies in partnership with the Board. Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, healthcare partners, and community supporters. Identify and pursue new revenue opportunities, including grants, corporate sponsorships, major gifts, planned giving, and special events. Support and empower Board members in fundraising and community engagement efforts. Track fundraising performance and recommend strategies to strengthen revenue growth. Community Engagement and External Relations Serve as BCN's primary spokesperson and representative in the community. Build and maintain meaningful relationships with healthcare systems, community organizations, businesses, elected officials, and advocacy groups. Increase awareness of BCN's mission, programs, and impact throughout Western New York. Position BCN as a trusted leader and resource for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Represent the organization at community meetings, partnership events, and fundraising activities. Board Partnership and Governance Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and staff. Support the Board in fulfilling its governance responsibilities. Provide timely reports, recommendations, and information to facilitate informed decision-making. Assist with board recruitment, orientation, engagement, and development. Partner with Board leadership to establish annual organizational goals and priorities. Financial Oversight and Sustainability Work closely with the Treasurer and Board to develop, monitor, and manage the annual budget. Support responsible financial stewardship and resource allocation. Monitor organizational performance and identify risks and opportunities. Ensure compliance with applicable nonprofit regulations, policies, and reporting requirements. Recommend strategies to strengthen financial health and build organizational capacity. Staff and Organizational Leadership Provide leadership, supervision, and support to staff and key volunteers. Foster a positive, collaborative, and mission-driven culture. Promote accountability, professional development, and team effectiveness. Ensure organizational systems and operations support achievement of strategic objectives. Delegate operational responsibilities appropriately while maintaining oversight and accountability.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible leadership, management, fundraising, nonprofit, healthcare, advocacy, or related experiences. Demonstrated success in fundraising, business development, donor relations, or partnership development. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Experience building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with a nonprofit board of directors. Knowledge of the Western New York philanthropic, healthcare, or nonprofit community. Experience managing staff, volunteers, and organizational budgets. Familiarity with breast cancer, patient support services, health advocacy, or related fields. Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential or other relevant professional certifications are a plus.
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
The successful candidate will demonstrate: Strategic thinking Relationship building Fundraising and revenue generation Community engagement Organizational leadership Financial stewardship Collaboration and partnership development Communication and advocacy Mission-driven leadership
TRANSITION PERIOD
BCN anticipates a structured transition period during which the incoming Executive Director will work alongside the retiring Executive Director to support: Donor and sponsor introductions Community partner relationship transfer Organizational knowledge sharing Financial and operational orientation Board relationship development Event and fundraising transition planning
COMPENSATION
Salary range of $35,000 - $40,000 annually for a part-time position, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Submit a resume with cover letter and salary requirement to edsearch@bcnwny.org
