Executive Director, Education Access & Community Impact

Warren Whitney; Lynchburg (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Lynchburg Beacon of Hope (LBOH) is seeking an Executive Director to lead its mission of expanding post-secondary access and workforce development in the Lynchburg area. The ED will drive strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement, ensuring financial sustainability and program excellence for youth and families.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will manage a 10–12 person team, partner with schools and colleges, and guide the organization through FY27–FY31 expansion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business management, public management, nonprofit management, education, or related field required; advanced degree or certifications are a plus.
• Proven leadership experience in educational or nonprofit settings, including staff supervision, with fundraising, board relations, and program oversight.
• Demonstrated proficiency in college access and workforce development, or related programs.
• High emotional intelligence with ability to build relationships quickly with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience leading a diverse team as a servant leader and building trust.
• Experience working with diverse groups including students, families, educators, community members, employers, and officials.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills; an effective public spokesperson.
• Strategic thinker with collaborative and organizational management abilities.
• Understanding of donor and financial management software and CRM systems.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel for work.

Responsibilities

• Serve as LBOH's primary spokesperson and advocate for post-secondary access and workforce readiness.
• Develop, execute, and evaluate short- and long-term strategies with the Board of Directors.
• Monitor performance metrics toward the FY27–FY31 strategic plan.
• Foster relationships with LCS, government, colleges, employers, funders, and the community.
• Ensure legal compliance, official records, and nonprofit status.
• Lead fundraising efforts: major donors, grants, sponsorships, events, endowment, and annual giving.
• Oversee budget preparation, monitoring, and transparent reporting to the Board.
• Manage a staff of 10–12, HR compliance, and staff development.
• Direct programs across Future Centers, scholarships, internships, and alumni engagement.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising

Board relations

Public speaking

Strategic thinking

Staff supervision

CRM systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Advanced degree or certifications (plus)

Tools

CRM software

Job description

Lynchburg Beacon of Hope (LBOH) is seeking an Executive Director to lead its mission of expanding post-secondary access and workforce development in the Lynchburg area. The ED will drive strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement, ensuring financial sustainability and program excellence for youth and families.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will manage a 10–12 person team, partner with schools and colleges, and guide the organization through FY27–FY31 expansion.