Job Description
Executive Director for The Spark Foundation The Spark Foundation is seeking a passionate, organized, and community-driven Executive Director to lead and grow our nonprofit organization in Northwest Arkansas. This is a unique opportunity for an entrepreneurial leader who is excited to make a direct impact through community programming, fundraising, event execution, and strategic growth. Our ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, can self-manage effectively, and is energized by building relationships with donors, sponsors, volunteers, families, and community partners. The Executive Director serves as the operational and strategic leader of the organization, overseeing nonprofit compliance, fundraising, budgeting, marketing, and execution of key annual events and programs that advance the mission of the Spark Foundation. This role is ideal for a candidate who is passionate about community impact, enjoys working with people, and is willing to take a hands-on approach to nonprofit leadership. Experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, event coordination, and community engagement is highly valued. The Spark Foundation is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and the community through innovative programming, partnerships, and events. We are looking for a leader who is excited to help shape the future growth and long-term sustainability of our organization. Spark Foundation Executive Director Job Description- 2026
Objective:
The goal of the Spark Foundation's executive director is to ensure the integrity and solvency of the Spark Foundation through six main functions: (1) Oversee nonprofit compliance (2) Set and maintain the budget (3)Uphold mission through current and future programming as outlined in the Strategic Plan (4) Secure Funding (5) Grow current programing (6) Keep up with trends and best practices (7) Race execution Detailed Description of each Main Function 1) Oversee nonprofit compliance Work with outside accountant, tax preparer, and executive and finance committees to submit and maintain all relevant federal, state, and local documents required to keep Spark Foundation's 501c3 status. This includes, but is not limited to, yearly tax filings, any and all federal and state payroll taxes, and sales tax (if applicable). Keep up to date with federal and state changes to filings from year to year. Oversees the hiring of any supplemental help/recruitment of board members needed to uphold compliance. This can include, but is not limited to, accountants, tax preparers, part-time staff, grant writers, nonprofit consultants, and recruiting potential board members and volunteers. 2) Set and maintain the budget Ensure that all staff compensations, mission programs, operational costs, and supplemental hires fit within the board approved yearly budget. Keep internal books that easily show when, where, how money is being spent. Work with outside accountants to reconcile finances and prepare reports for the finance committee Oversee all banking needs. This can include opening/closing accounts, and managing all online and mobile banking accounts. Make recommendations to the finance committee to inform any changes to the budget Work with the finance committee to draft a budget proposal to be submitted at the Quarter 3 board meeting. 3) Uphold mission through current and future programming as outlined in the Strategic Plan Have a robust understanding of the mission and how the current strategic plan outlines current and future programming Make sure all facets of current programming match the mission. Look for ways to improve or expand upon mission work within current programing and as outlined under the strategic plan. Offer board recommendations for future programming as it fits the mission 4) Grow current programing Raise all required funds to meet the board approved budget and goals outlined in the strategic plan. This can be achieved through a combination of: federal and state grants, local business grants, individual donors, business sponsorships, and program fees. 5) Keep up with trends and best practices Retain past donors, funders, and program participants Actively explore ways to reach new donors, funders, and program participants Engage local partners to promote programs Oversee all marketing for programs (online, print, on-air, or in-person events) 6) Research current affairs of nonprofits and make recommendations to the board for any changes to strategic plan, budget, or programs Keep up to date on marketing trends Explore initiatives for improving DEI as it relates to board composition, internal policies, and program growth. 7) Race Execution Coordinate relationships with sponsors and vendors Engage in marketing/advertising to attract runners and volunteers Obtain required permits, insurance, etc. Implementation:
Successful management of all 6 functions is imperative to the integrity and solvency of Spark Foundation, however the bulk of the executive directors day-to-day will come from functions four and five. Mandatory Candidate Qualities and Skills:
Self-manageable, can work alone Available to work nights and weekends (particularly during race weeks) Organized Skilled at delegating and managing large groups of people Able to lift 50lbs Background in nonprofits Demonstrated interest in Spark Foundation's mission Understanding of current social media trends (or willingness to learn) Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, basic website maintenance, and marketing automation programs (MailChimp) Experience with large event planning (500+ people) Excellent written and verbal communicator Additional Desired Qualities and Skills:
Interest in running and or fitness Desire to work with children and families Active personality Ability and desire to do public speaking events Understanding of NWA landscape and demographics Grant writing Expected Weekly Hours Hours can range from 15-30 per week. For about 40 weeks of the year the Execuitive Director will likely work around 15 hours/week. During race months, the weekly hours worked will likely range 20-30 hours (Including the race itself). This is also dependent on the executive director's efficiency and productivity in terms of processing and executing required tasks and meetings. Pay:
From $30,000.00 per year Benefits:
Flexible schedule Work Location:
Hybrid remote in Fayetteville, AR 72703
