Current Searches-Executive Director

Executive Director

Community Foundation of West Kentucky
Paducah, Kentucky

The Moran Company is pleased to partner with the Community Foundation of West Kentucky to recruit the organization's next Executive Director.

Organizational Background

The Community Foundation of West Kentucky (CFWK) is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Western Kentucky by connecting donors with meaningful charitable opportunities. CFWK awards several million dollars in grants each year to support nearly all areas of the nonprofit sector, including housing, food security, education, health, employment, historic preservation, arts and culture, disaster recovery, and more.

Located in Paducah, CFWK employs four staff and is governed by a Board of Directors that includes 15 dedicated community volunteers. Paducah is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant arts scene, and a strong sense of community. The city’s historic Lower Town Arts District is a thriving hub for creatives, featuring beautifully restored 19th-century buildings, art galleries, and local studios.

Paducah is also known for its welcoming, small-town feel paired with a surprisingly cosmopolitan touch—thanks in part to its designation as a UNESCO Creative City for its dedication to fostering creativity and innovation. CFWK plays a crucial role in supporting local initiatives and promoting a high quality of life. The Executive Director of CFWK is a key civic leader in Paducah.

Position Summary

CFWK is seeking a dynamic leader to serve as its next Executive Director. This position requires a passionate and strategic individual who can provide effective leadership, continue to grow the Foundation’s donor pipeline, and increase the organization’s grantmaking.

Leadership and Strategy

• Develop and implement a strategic vision to advance CFWK’s mission and impact.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for CFWK within the community.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the organization.

Fundraising and Donor Relations

• Build and steward relationships with donors, individuals, businesses, and nonprofits to secure financial support for the community’s initiatives. Identify and pursue new funding opportunities.
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies, including major gifts, endowment building, and planned giving.
• Expand the Foundation’s donor base and increase assets under management.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Build and strengthen relationships with nonprofit organizations, businesses, civic leaders, and local government.
• Identify collaborative opportunities to address regional needs and enhance community impact.
• Represent CFWK at public events, speaking engagements, and community meetings.

Board and Staff Collaboration

• Partner with the Board of Directors, providing information to function effectively and make informed decisions.
• Supervise and lead a dedicated team, providing guidance, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
• Implement the current strategic plan and lead the Board and staff through future strategic planning.

Professional Qualifications and Personal Attributes 

The ideal candidate will have a passion for philanthropy as a vehicle to strengthen the community. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in managing staff and will be capable of communicating with a wide range of audiences. Specifically, the ideal candidate will possess the following attributes, skills, and experience.

• Ability to serve as the public face of CFWK in the community.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust with donors.
• Fundraising experience, particularly in major gifts and planned giving.
• Strong leadership skills with an ability to set and communicate a compelling vision for CFWK.
• Capacity to inspire, manage, develop and retain a talented team.
• A demonstrated knowledge of and passion for the work of philanthropy in the community.
• Successful experience in making direct solicitation calls as well as developing cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Experience in working with a nonprofit board and other volunteers.
• Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and organizational growth.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $125,000 - $150,000. CFWK will also offer a health insurance stipend and contributions to a retirement plan.

Non-Discrimination Policy

CFWK is an Equal Opportunity Institution and EEO/Affirmative Action Employer committed to excellence through diversity. Employment offers are made on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, or age.

Application Process

The search for the CFWK Executive Director is being conducted by The Moran Company. Questions about the position can be directed to Mike English, The Moran Company; mike (at) morancompany.com.

To apply for this position, submit cover letter and resume to Mike English, The Moran Company, via the secure online portal. Resume should include all professional education and experience, dates of employment (month and year) and position/title and organization names. Cover letter should articulate relevant experience and fit with the stated preferences of the position.  APPLY NOW