Executive Director Position Overview
The Common Wheel is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the nonprofit organization. The full time, salaried Executive Director will report to The Common Wheel board of directors. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, bring a passion for bicycling and active mobility, and have a deep commitment to community engagement.
The Executive Director will be responsible for fundraising, strategic planning, operational management, and community engagement. Working closely with the board of directors to ensure the financial health and sustainability of the organization, the Executive Director will enhance its programs and services, drive the mission, and lead business decisions that drive organizational growth. This role requires a hands-on leader who is both a strategic thinker and a practical manager, capable of inspiring staff, volunteers, and community partners.
The Executive Director is a hybrid position with an expectation that the Director will spend a minimum of 8 hours weekly in a shop location for staff meetings and operational and programming oversight.
Organizational Summary
The Common Wheel is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes bicycling and empowers mobility and access to everyday life through bicycles in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Since 2014, we have operated a retail bicycle shop and a programming co-op, with retail revenue directly supporting our mission-driven education and community programs. Through classes, events, and partnerships, we work to expand access to safe, reliable transportation and strengthen bike culture throughout the community. The Common Wheel has built a strong reputation in Lancaster and is well positioned for continued growth through collaborative partnerships and increasing community demand. Our key partners include the School District of Lancaster, Church World Service, PA CareerLink, and the City of Lancaster. We are supported by three full-time staff, seasonal employees, and a dedicated team of volunteers who help deliver our programs and services. With an annual operating budget of approximately $500,000, The Common Wheel continues to create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the benefits of bicycling.
To learn more about The Common Wheel, please visit .
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field or equivalent experience required
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a leadership role, preferably within a nonprofit organization
- Demonstrated leadership of revenue-generating strategies, including grant writing and soliciting major donors to sustain our business model
- Proven experience in overseeing projects from conception to completion, including planning, execution, and evaluation
- Demonstrated experience in community outreach, partnership building, and stakeholder engagement
- Experience managing day-to-day operations, including staff supervision, inventory management, and customer service, in a nonprofit and/or retail environment
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with strong time management skills.
- Adept at learning and navigating diverse software applications. Proficiency with QBO, Lightspeed, Bloomerang, MailChimp and Wordpress is a plus.
- Experience in the bicycle industry or related field is a plus but not mandatory
Job Duties
Fundraising and Financial Management: (40%)
- Provide oversight of finances and operations including, but not limited to: drafting, monitoring, and operating within the approved organizational budget
- Develop and implement an annual fundraising strategy to meet budgetary goals
- Play the primary role in the cultivation and solicitation of major gifts with donors
- Assist contracted accounting firm for financial reporting, including regular updates to the board of directors and preparation of annual audits
- Identify and manage financial risks, securing the long-term economic viability of the organization
Community Engagement and Advocacy: (25%)
- Act as primary spokesperson for the organization to the media, public, and stakeholders.
- Advocate for cycling and active transportation infrastructure and policies that promote our mission to empower mobility and access to everyday life through bicycles
- Build constructive, effective, and productive relationships externally with key organizations, government entities, funders, nonprofits, and local leaders
- Foster a respected image with clients, and the general, nonprofit, and philanthropic community to further The Common Wheel’s reputation as a leader and collaborator
- Provide strategic vision for marketing and communication efforts
- Act as an industry leader, staying on top of sector trends and regulatory compliance
Leadership and Governance: (20%)
- Work directly with the board of directors to design, develop, and implement the organization’s long-term vision and mission
- Lead organizational planning and development of annual goals and objectives
- Attend and participate in board and committee meetings. Prepare board reports and support board committees in administration and planning
- Identify opportunities for new programs and initiatives that address community needs and enhance the impact of the organization
- Serve as the primary liaison between the board of directors and staff to ensure organizational goals are met
- Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements
Programming and Operations: (15%)
- Foster a transparent, collaborative, and inclusive organizational culture
- Work with the directors of the organization (staff) to oversee daily operations, including, but not limited to: personnel, operations, programs, and the physical facilities
- Delegate responsibilities among staff, volunteers, and board committees to effectively serve the organization’s clients and customers
- Ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services that align with the organization's mission
- Oversee program evaluation, using data and feedback to inform continuous improvement
- Assist with all programming as needed
Travel Requirements and Compensation Details:
- Travel: Regular travel between The Common Wheel locations in Lancaster City is required, with additional travel as necessary.
- Time Off: 15 days vacation time
- Benefits: N/A
- Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 based on past experience and responsibilities
Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
