Executive Director

Families Forward, a nonprofit organization supporting four primary programs — Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter, and The Home Connection is currently seeking an Executive Director to lead and advance the organization. The Executive Director is responsible for guiding programs, development and fundraising, staff management, and organization financial health. This position offices primarily onsite at Families Forward locations in Des Moines, IA.

Families Forward believes every family deserves a safe place to live, access to food, and an opportunity for stability. We are seeking an Executive Director who aligns with the organization mission.

If you are a strategic thinker, a relationship‑builder, and a leader who believes every family deserves safety, stability, and opportunity this could be a great fit for you.

We’re looking for a leader who:

• Brings nonprofit leadership experience
• Has a track record in fundraising and strategic planning
• Leads with compassion, equity, and accountability
• Believes in the power of community to change lives

Why this role matters: Families Forward is entering an exciting period of growth, including:

• Strengthening our board and governance model
• Investing in staff culture, retention, and leadership development
• Implementing a refreshed brand and storytelling strategy to elevate our mission
• Building on development and fundraising strategies
• Kicking off a new 3 year strategic plan with opportunities for expansion

What benefits look like:

• Health Insurance (90% of monthly premium covered by Families Forward!)
• Dental and Vision insurance
• Company Paid Life-Insurance
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance
• Company Paid Short-Term Disability and Long- Term Disability
• Voluntary Hospital, Accident, Illness, and Legal and Identity Theft
• HSA, FSA, and DCA Plans
• 401(k) Plan- Employer Match  up to 4%
• Mileage reimbursement

Responsibilities/Job Duties:

Governance & Strategic Leadership

• Partner with the Board to implement organizational strategies, policies, and initiatives aligned with Families Forward’s mission, values, and long‑term vision.
• Lead the organization in executing the 2026–28 strategic priorities, including strengthening board governance, advancing all four programs, and improving brand clarity.
• Ensure the Board is equipped with timely information about program impact, financial health, and strategic opportunities.
• Maintain compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory standards.

Vision, Brand & Community Leadership

• Serve as the chief ambassador for Families Forward, ensuring the organization’s brand is clearly communicated and consistently implemented across programs.
• Lead the organization’s commitment to the Families Forward brand, including storytelling, case statements, and community engagement.
• Build strong relationships with community partners, funders, civic leaders, and stakeholders to elevate the organization’s visibility and impact.

Financial & Operational Management

• Oversee the financial health of the organization, including budgeting, payroll approval, audit coordination, and compliance.
• Ensure operational excellence across all programs, program oversight, and administrative systems.
• Support the expansion of programs, including program planning, board engagement, and resource development.
• Oversee property management including rental properties and landlord communications; coordinate and execute property management ensure the maintenance, repair, and operational efficiency of facilities.
• Ability to effectively navigate crisis situations.

Fundraising & Development

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive fundraising strategies, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, grants, and events.
• Identify and pursue new funding opportunities aligned with strategic priorities.
• Lead and strengthen donor stewardship and cultivate relationships that support long‑term sustainability.
• Collaborate with the Board to activate their networks and increase development capacity.

Program Impact & Strategic Growth

• Ensure each program has clearly defined outcomes, aligned with the organization’s vision for impact.
• Guide and implement program strategies, including maintaining best practice standards and considering future community needs.
• Support program leaders in evaluating and improving program delivery, ensuring high‑quality and equitable services.

Leadership, Culture, & Talent Development

• Provide visionary leadership that fosters a culture of respect, equity, compassion, collaboration, accountability, and commitment to the organization.
• Mentor and empower staff, promoting professional growth, teamwork, and shared servant leadership.
• Strengthen staff development, growth, and organizational culture.
• Ensure consistent application of personnel policies and a supportive, inclusive work environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, social sciences, or related field required.
• Experience leading organizations in community-based services, government, human services, healthcare, community development, or related sectors is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience in a nonprofit or mission‑driven organization.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, financial management, and strategic planning.
• Experience working with or supporting a nonprofit board.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to articulate a compelling vision.
• Proven ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, community partners, and staff.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, grant management, and compliance best practices.
• Experience with program evaluation, working with vulnerable populations, impact measurement, and data‑informed decision‑making.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Adaptability and flexibility through change.
• Access to reliable transportation for regular participation in work.
• Possession of valid Iowa Driver’s License, a good driving record, insurable, and able to provide proof of personal vehicle insurance with a minimum of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident auto insurance liability coverage.
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check and dependent adult and child abuse background check.
• Availability on occasional evenings and weekends as organization needs arise.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly.
• Ability to travel regularly within the Des Moines, IA metro community and between Families Forward locations and occasional travel within the State of Iowa.

If you’re ready to lead an organization with a powerful mission and a bold vision for the future, we’d love to speak with you.

Families Forward is an equal opportunity employer.

Salary Range: $120,000–$145,000 Location: Des Moines metro area 

HOW TO APPLY: Please include your resume, cover letter and 3 professional references at time of application.