Job Title: Executive Director
Experience Required: Proven senior leadership experience in nonprofit or human services, with expertise in operations, fundraising, grant compliance, financial management, and stakeholder engagement.
Employment Type: Full-time, Executive Leadership Position
About NLDC
Founded in 2011, New Life Day Center (NLDC) serves as a central access point for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Lexington. The organization bridges service gaps by providing essential resources, including daily meals, secure storage lockers, transportation assistance, and connections to housing, healthcare, employment, veteran services, and recovery programs. Through strong partnerships with community organizations and local government, the Center delivers coordinated, on-site support and leads initiatives that address homelessness, housing stability, and community well-being.
Role Overview The Executive Director reports to the Chairman of the Board and leads the overall operations and administration of the New Life Day Center. Serving as the organization’s primary representative to the community, government, and donors, this role ensures compliance with all contractual and grant requirements, including reporting and documentation. The Executive Director is also responsible for fundraising, donor relations, and ensuring sound financial management of the organization.
Key Responsibilities
ü Financial Management
- Oversee financial integrity of NLDC including developing annual financial plans, production of timely financial statements, and ensuring financial controls are in place and followed.
- Ensure financials and operational procedures comply with appropriate regulations and guidelines.
- Ensure appropriate funds are available to meet contractual and grant requirements, as well as day to day operations.
ü Relationship Management
- Maintain and strengthen relationships with community stakeholders, city officials, partner agencies, Board, donors, and volunteers.
- Develop and implement communication plans to key stakeholders and donors.
ü Fundraising & Grant Management
- Secure sustainable funding streams through grant writing and manage requirement delivery.
- Oversee fundraising events and donor communications.
- Cultivate long-term relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
ü HR & Organizational Leadership
- Oversee recruitment, employment, and release of all personnel (paid staff, contractors, and volunteers).
- Manage payroll to ensure employees are paid on time.
- Develop and implement Board approved personnel policies and procedures.
- Ensure a robust volunteer program including active recruitment, training/development, and meaningful roles that build commitment to NLDC and it’s mission.
ü Strategic Planning & Board Support
- Develop and execute annual and long-term strategic and operational plans with the Board
- Cultivate a strong and transparent relationship with the Board that is positive and productive.
ü Facilities Oversight
- Collaborate with Operations leadership on facility maintenance and capital projects, to provide a safe and effective environment for staff and clients.
Required Qualifications & Core Competencies
- Bachelor’s degree required with minimum of 2 years’ experience in donor management, development, and grant writing.
- Strong leadership experience in nonprofit or human services settings, with ability to balance compassion and accountability.
- Proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships through empathy, cultural competence, and inclusive engagement with diverse populations and stakeholders.
- Financial acumen, including understanding of budgets, cash flow, and basic financial management.
- Strategic thinking skills with the ability to assess needs and develop actionable plans to achieve goals.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly and compellingly communicate impact through storytelling and data.
Preferred Competencies (Nice to Haves)
- Prior experience in a senior nonprofit leadership role (e.g. Executive Director)
- Experience working directly with homeless or recovery populations
- Advanced experience in fundraising strategy and donor development
- Prior exposure to grant-funded or compliance-driven organizational environments
What we offer
· Competitive salary and health benefits package.
· A mission-driven leadership role with direct community impact on homelessness and related services.
· High visibility and influence with community leaders, government agencies, donors, and nonprofit partners.
· Strategic leadership opportunity with autonomy to shape organizational direction in partnership with an engaged Board.
· Opportunity to build lasting systems and leave a meaningful legacy in a purpose-driven organization.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Fund Raising: 2 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
