The role of a CEO/President or executive director of a not-for-profit organization varies significantly based on the type of the organization. In general, the main focus is to execute the vision set forth by the board of directors. CEOs are the point of accountability, giving direction to all the staff members. They plan and execute all tasks required to achieve the organization’s goals.
Education and Qualifications
There is no defined educational path or qualifications to become a CEO or President of a not-for-profit organization. Some lead a career in the private sector before joining a not-for-profit; others start at the bottom of the ladder and climb up. Though a bachelor’s degree in business can help, it is not a must.
Responsibilities and a Day in the Life
Like the private sector, the CEO/president/executive director is responsible for all aspects of a not-for-profit organization. So, though they have an 8-hours-a-day, five-days-a-week type of job, they are “working” all the time.
Some of the daily responsibilities include the following:
- Acting as the liaison between the board of directors and managers of the organization
- Communicating the goals of the organization to the managers
- Developing strategies and tactics to achieve the goals
- Creating/deciding the annual budget for the organization and executing it according to the plan of action
- Documenting and reporting financial (and other) details to the board
- Working with the marketing manager on public relations, promotions, and communications
- Working with the development manager for fundraising
- Hiring, training, and directing/managing staff and employees for various functions
- Managing all day-to-day operations of the organization
- Complying with all federal and state regulations related to not-for-profit organizations
Other Necessary Skills
- Leadership skills
- Excellent planning skills
- Decision making
- Networking and people skills
- Ability to raise funds
Salary
There are about 1.5 million not-for-profit organizations in the US. Though some CEO/President/Executive Directors work without pay, most compensation varies from $35K to $250K.
Summary
If you find the following characteristics appealing, being the head of a not-for-profit organization could be a fit for you.
- Desire to run a large organization
- Strong business acumen
- Ability to work long hours under stress
- Self-motivated
- Willingness to take risks
- Flexible and willing to work hard for less compensation (compared to for-profit business) for a good cause.
