Executive Director, Community Impact & Growth

Acara Solutions, Inc.; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI) in Buffalo, NY, seeks an entrepreneurial Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and operational discipline. You will oversee staff, fundraising, governance, and external relations, ensuring sustained impact and financial health for the organization.

The right candidate will partner with the Board, build durable funding streams, and advance WEDI’s mission through community collaboration and accountable leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; Master's degree preferred.
• At least five years of leadership/management experience.
• Experience in nonprofit and business operations.
• Entrepreneurial, growth mindset with revenue-generation experience.
• Team builder able to develop strategic growth and partnerships.
• Fundraising or business development experience with donors.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and capable of working across cultures.
• Commitment to community development and serving low-income communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead organizational leadership and strategic direction with the Board.
• Oversee staff development, finance and fundraising operations.
• Represent the organization to funders, partners and the community.
• Ensure governance, compliance, and effective program delivery.
• Develop and monitor a growth plan aligned with mission goals.
• Foster an accountable, high-performing organizational culture.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Team building

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI) in Buffalo, NY, seeks an entrepreneurial Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and operational discipline. You will oversee staff, fundraising, governance, and external relations, ensuring sustained impact and financial health for the organization.

The right candidate will partner with the Board, build durable funding streams, and advance WEDI’s mission through community collaboration and accountable leadership.