Executive director job description template
Copy this template, replace the bracketed text, and cut anything that does not fit. A clear job description is the single best way to get the right applicants.
How to use this template
- Start with the three to five priorities your board agreed the next leader must deliver. Every section should support them.
- Keep it to two pages. Long lists of duties scare off strong candidates and attract people who match keywords.
- Include the salary range. More states and cities require it, and candidates skip postings without one.
The template
Position: Executive Director
Organization: [Organization name]
Location: [City, State] / [In office, Hybrid, or Remote]
Reports to: Board of Directors
Salary range: [$X to $Y], plus [benefits summary]
About us
[Two or three sentences on your mission, who you serve, your budget size, and staff size. Say what makes this a good moment to join.]
The opportunity
[One paragraph on why the role is open and what the board hopes the next leader will accomplish in the first two to three years.]
What you will do
- Lead strategy: [Work with the board to set direction and turn it into an annual plan and budget.]
- Grow resources: [Lead fundraising across individual, institutional, corporate, and earned revenue. Name your current mix if helpful.]
- Steward finances: [Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls.]
- Build the team: [Lead, develop, and retain staff of N. Strengthen succession readiness.]
- Deliver programs: [Ensure programs are high quality and measured against outcomes.]
- Represent the organization: [Build partnerships and be a visible voice in the community.]
- Partner with the board: [Keep the board informed, engaged, and focused on governance.]
What you bring
- [X+] years of senior leadership in a nonprofit, business, or community setting
- A track record of raising revenue and building lasting funder relationships
- Strong financial judgment and comfort with budgets and financial statements
- Experience leading and developing a team
- [Knowledge of our community or field, if truly required]
- [Education: say "preferred" unless it is genuinely required]
How to apply
[Apply at your application link by date, or "open until filled." Include a resume and cover letter. Questions go to name and email.]
Equal opportunity
[Your organization's equal opportunity statement.]
What to leave out
- "Other duties as assigned" and long lists of routine tasks
- Requirements that screen out good people for no reason, like a specific degree field
- Internal jargon and program acronyms a newcomer would not know
Next steps
Once the description is final, put it on one apply page so every candidate sees the same information and every application lands in one private place. See how SealedApply works for search committees.
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