Executive Director

Location: Sioux Falls, SD

Job Type: Full-time

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REACH Literacy is a dynamic and forward-thinking nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and education in our community. Our organization operates a thriving second-hand bookstore, offers a wide range of literacy programming, and relies on fundraising efforts to sustain and expand our impact. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Director to lead our team and drive our mission of improving literacy and educational outcomes for all.

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Position Overview

The Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, overseeing daily operations, and managing a team of dedicated professionals including paid staff and volunteers. This role encompasses three main areas of focus: fundraising, literacy programming, and bookstore management.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Team Management:

   • ​Provide visionary leadership to the organization, aligning strategies and goals with the mission.

   • Recruit, train, and manage a high-performing team of staff and volunteers.

   • Foster a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diversity and promotes professional development.

   • Report regularly to the Board of Directors on organizational performance and strategic initiatives.

   • Works with Board of Directors to assure responsibilities and obligations are met.​

2. Fundraising:

   • ​Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the organization's financial sustainability.

   • Develop and execute community fundraising events such as Brewhaha, Harry Potter, Friends and Family.

   • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and grantors.

   • Write and submit grant proposals, manage fundraising campaigns, and seek innovative funding opportunities.

   • Work with the Board of Directors to set annual fundraising goals and track progress toward achieving them.

3. Literacy Programming:

   • ​Oversee the development and implementation of literacy programs and initiatives for workplace literacy, everyday English for adults and Bee a Reader youth programs.

   • Collaborate with educators, community partners, and volunteers to design effective programs that serve our target demographics.Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness through data collection and analysis.

   • Foster a positive learning environment that encourages reading and literacy development including the usage of the new literacy center.

4. Bookstore Management: 

   • ​Oversee the day-to-day operations of our nonprofit bookstore.

   • Ensure the store is well-maintained and stocked with a diverse selection of books and educational materials.

   • Develop and implement strategies to enhance bookstore sales and profitability.

   • Collaborate with staff to create engaging in-store displays and promotional events.

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (master’s degree preferred).

• Minimum of 5 years of nonprofit leadership experience, including fundraising, program development, and team management.

• Strong understanding of literacy issues and a passion for promoting literacy in the community.

• Proven track record of successful fundraising, including grant writing and donor cultivation.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Strategic thinker with the ability to set and achieve organizational goals.

• Proficiency in financial management and budgeting.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

• The chance to make a significant impact on literacy and education in our community.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment.

 

If you are a dedicated and visionary leader with a passion for literacy, books, and fundraising, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to lead our organization in making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families through the power of education and reading.

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Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to BOD@reachliteracy.org. Please include "Executive Director Application" in the subject line of your email.

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REACH Literacy is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the community we serve.