Job Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of KSRA and is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and advancement of the organization. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director oversees strategic planning, financial management, therapeutic recreation services, inclusion programs, staff leadership, risk management, community partnerships, and fundraising initiatives.
The Executive Director works collaboratively with member agencies, schools, community organizations, families, and the Kishwaukee Special Recreation Foundation to ensure the delivery of high-quality, inclusive recreation services while advancing the long-term sustainability and growth of the organization.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and implement Board priorities.
- Oversee agency finances, budgeting, and long-term fiscal sustainability.
- Lead fundraising, grant development, sponsorships, and foundation partnerships.
- Ensure high-quality therapeutic recreation, inclusion, and Special Olympics programming.
- Recruit, develop, and supervise staff while fostering a positive organizational culture.
- Build strong relationships with member agencies, families, schools, and community partners.
- Ensure compliance with ADA requirements, risk management practices, and applicable laws.
- Serve as KSRA's primary ambassador and advocate throughout the community.
Desired Qualifications, Skills & Certifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Administration, Parks and Recreation, Human Services, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field required.
- Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in therapeutic recreation, special recreation, parks and recreation, nonprofit management, or a related field.
- Experience with budget development and management, strategic planning, staff leadership, and organizational administration required.
- Experience with fundraising, grant writing, donor cultivation, sponsorship development, and foundation partnerships strongly preferred.
Certifications
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) preferred.
- Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) desirable.
- Valid Illinois Driver's License required.
Key Skills & Competencies
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong fiscal management and budget administration skills.
- Strategic leadership and long-range planning abilities.
- Experience building partnerships with park districts, schools, community organizations, donors, and stakeholders.
- Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
- Knowledge of inclusion services, therapeutic recreation principles, and ADA accessibility requirements.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate, mentor, and develop staff.
- Experience identifying and securing alternative revenue sources through grants, sponsorships, fundraising, and community partnerships.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and person-centered services.
- Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on operational management in a collaborative team environment.
Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
