Executive Director
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo
Location: Greater Kalamazoo, Michigan
Status: Full-time
About Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo is an independent nonprofit organization affiliated with Girls on the Run International. We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. Our vision is a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and boldly pursues her dreams.
Our Core Values guide everything we do:
• We act with intention and responsibility in decision making.
• We honor differences and build strength in connection.
• We nurture joy, optimism, and gratitude through words and actions.
• We lead with open hearts and assume positive intent.
• We support physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
• We stand up for ourselves and others.
We are committed to equitable access to our programs for all girls. We celebrate individuality, foster an inclusive environment, and continue advancing an anti-racist organizational identity.
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo currently serves more than 1,000 girls annually across Kalamazoo and Allegan Counties along with (Van Buren Co.) and Athens Area Schools (Calhoun Co.). Since 2002, more than 35,000 girls have joined our movement toward joy and confidence.
Role Vision
The Board of Directors seeks an Executive Director who is a collaborative and mission-driven leader. This individual will bring strong nonprofit expertise along with emotional intelligence, empathy, a growth mindset, and a genuine passion for health and wellbeing. The Executive Director will work with community leaders, school systems, nonprofit partners, volunteers, and families to deepen our impact across the region.
This leader will guide vision and strategy, champion fundraising and community partnerships, ensure financial and operational excellence, and cultivate a positive, empowered staff culture. The Executive Director oversees approximately 4.50 FTE staff, nearly 1,000 volunteers, and an annual budget of more than $500,000.
Even those who are not runners are encouraged to apply. We seek a leader who believes in helping every girl discover her inner strength.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
• Provide strategic direction that supports long-term growth, excellence, and mission alignment.
• Partner closely with the Board to advance strategic priorities and foster strong governance.
• Engage volunteers, staff, board members, funders, and community partners with collaborative, inspiring leadership.
• Maintain accountability and continuous improvement through consistent evaluation and data-informed decision making.
Operations and Administration
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit laws, ethical standards, and Girls on the Run International policies.
• Oversee policies, systems, and risk management practices that support sustainable operations.
• Review and manage contracts and legal matters in coordination with appropriate leadership.
Community Engagement and Communication
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Girls on the Run in Greater Kalamazoo.
• Cultivate strong relationships with donors, sponsors, civic groups, schools, and volunteers.
• Share impact and program outcomes clearly and compellingly with stakeholders.
Financial and Fund Development Leadership
• Lead creation and management of the annual budget in partnership with staff and board.
• Monitor financial performance and implement improvements that support sustainability.
• Oversee fundraising strategies including donor cultivation, sponsorships, grants, and events.
Staff and Volunteer Development
• Lead, coach, and support a high-performing team that reflects our values and commitment to inclusion.
• Support employee growth, morale, and retention through regular feedback and professional development.
• Maintain a positive, collaborative work environment rooted in trust and wellbeing.
Program Oversight
• Ensure high-quality program delivery with fidelity to the Girls on the Run model.
• Support coach recruitment and training while engaging frequently with program sites.
• Champion innovation and access to serve more girls with diverse experiences.
Working Conditions
Typical office environment with occasional lifting of 40 pounds and travel to meetings and events. A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and schedule flexibility (including some early mornings, evenings, and weekends) are required.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of progressive professional experience.
• Alignment with GOTR core values and commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Strong leadership presence grounded in empathy, integrity, and sound judgment.
• Exceptional communication, relationship building, and organizational skills.
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting.
• Experience working with or for a Board of Directors.
• Enthusiasm for youth development and community engagement.
• Ability to support and occasionally participate in physical program components.
Preferred Qualifications
• Nonprofit management experience including governance.
• Strategic planning, fundraising, and budget management experience.
• Direct involvement with Girls on the Run or similar programs.
• Knowledge of programming for elementary-age children.
What You Can Expect
• A passionate and supportive staff who values teamwork, joy, and purpose.
• A highly engaged board in active partnership with staff.
• A strong and enthusiastic volunteer community.
• Opportunities to grow your leadership and learn alongside your team.
• Respect for work-life balance along with a comprehensive benefits package.
We know that women and people from marginalized groups often hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. If this role excites you and you believe you can make a strong contribution to our mission, we encourage you to apply.
To apply, please contact Jill Little, Director of Physician Recruitment, at ph. 269-598-3388 or submit a copy of your CV to jlittle@snjcross.com.
Apply Now