Girls on the Run International has helped millions of girls discover their confidence and inner strength.
As the Executive Director of Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo, you will lead a mission-driven organization serving more than 1,000 girls annually across Kalamazoo and surrounding counties — building joyful, confident leaders for life.
Since 2002, more than 35,000 girls have participated locally in this transformational program.
About the Organization
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of Girls on the Run International. We deliver a research-based, experience-driven curriculum that integrates physical activity with life skills development.
Our Core Values:
- Act with intention and responsibility
- Honor differences and build strength in connection
- Nurture joy, optimism, and gratitude
- Lead with open hearts and assume positive intent
- Support physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing
- Stand up for ourselves and others
We are deeply committed to equitable access, inclusion, and advancing an anti-racist organizational identity.
Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive leader and primary ambassador of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director oversees:
- ~4.5 FTE staff
- Nearly 1,000 volunteers
- An annual operating budget exceeding $500,000
This leader will ensure strong governance, operational excellence, financial sustainability, and continued program growth throughout Greater Kalamazoo and West Michigan.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Provide vision and long-term strategy aligned with mission and growth goals
- Partner closely with the Board to advance strategic priorities
- Foster a culture of accountability and data-informed decision-making
- Strengthen community partnerships and regional visibility
Financial & Fund Development Leadership
- Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with staff and Board
- Monitor financial performance and implement sustainability strategies
- Lead fundraising initiatives including donor cultivation, grants, sponsorships, and events
- Build relationships with funders and corporate partners
Community Engagement & Advocacy
- Serve as chief spokesperson and ambassador in the Greater Kalamazoo region
- Cultivate relationships with schools, families, civic groups, donors, and volunteers
- Clearly communicate impact and outcomes to stakeholders
Operations & Administration
- Ensure compliance with nonprofit laws, ethical standards, and affiliate policies
- Oversee contracts, risk management, and operational systems
- Maintain sound administrative practices to support long-term success
Staff & Volunteer Leadership
- Recruit, coach, and develop a high-performing team
- Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and mission-driven culture
- Support volunteer engagement, training, and retention
Program Oversight
- Ensure high-quality program delivery with fidelity to the Girls on the Run model
- Support coach recruitment and training efforts
- Champion innovation and access to serve more girls
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree
- 5+ years of progressive leadership experience
- Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors
- Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and youth development
Preferred
- Nonprofit executive or senior leadership experience
- Strategic planning and fundraising experience
- Budget management expertise
- Experience with youth programming or similar mission-driven organizations
Working Conditions
- Primarily office-based with travel to schools, meetings, and events
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required
- Flexibility for occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends
Why Join Us?
- Passionate, collaborative staff culture
- Engaged and supportive Board
- Strong volunteer base
- Meaningful community impact
- Work-life balance and comprehensive benefits package
We recognize that women and individuals from marginalized communities often hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. If this role excites you and you believe you can make a strong contribution, we encourage you to apply.
How to Apply
Please contact:
Jill Little, Director of Recruitment
Ph. 269-598-3388
email: jlittle@snjcross.com
Apply Now