Mission-Driven CEO for Human Services Agency

Lutheran Services in Iowa; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision and dental insurance

401(k) with employer match

Agency vehicle or mileage reimburse

Paid time off

Job summary

Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) seeks an experienced President & CEO to lead with servant leadership, shape strategic plans, and manage resources to advance missions for families and individuals served across Iowa.

The role requires steering multi-site operations, engaging donors, and representing LSI publicly while nurturing strong board and faith‑community relationships. A Master’s in social services and 10+ years of senior leadership are expected.

Qualifications

• Must have completed Master’s degree in Social Work or other qualifying human service field.
• Minimum of ten years of full‑time, progressive management experience in a multi‑site, multi‑service human service organization, with five years executive leader experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and visionary leadership to the LSI executive staff team.
• Oversee stewardship of human and financial resources, including development, implementation, and maintenance of agency budget goals.
• Develop and assess the annual strategic plan for LSI on an ongoing basis.
• Promote continuous quality improvement and service delivery aligned with LSI's mission, vision and values.
• Understand and operationalize the LSI Board policy manual.
• Maintain regular communication with the Board of Directors and Charitable Foundation, providing leadership and support.
• Ensure LSI is positively represented to the public.
• Oversee contracts and agreements, including monitoring terms, performance, reporting, and financial performance.
• Understand and promote the agency's advocacy plan.
• Actively participate in donor relations and fundraising activities.
• Strengthen relationships with ELCA Iowa Synods and pastors to support shared values.
• Demonstrate unwavering commitment to the mission and values of LSI.

Skills

Visionary leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Donor relations

Board relations

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Social Work or related human services

Job description

Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) seeks an experienced President & CEO to lead with servant leadership, shape strategic plans, and manage resources to advance missions for families and individuals served across Iowa.

The role requires steering multi-site operations, engaging donors, and representing LSI publicly while nurturing strong board and faith‑community relationships. A Master’s in social services and 10+ years of senior leadership are expected.