Mission-Driven CEO for Social Services nonprofit

SkyWater Search Partners; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) has engaged SkyWater Search Partners to identify a President and Chief Executive Officer. The CEO will lead a 1,250-person nonprofit with a $162M budget, directing strategic plans, fundraising, and statewide advocacy across more than 60 locations in Illinois.

The role requires a mission-driven leader with deep financial acumen, exceptional communication, and a track record of managing complex organizations through evolving funding landscapes, including

Qualifications

• 15 years of progressive management responsibility and leadership experience.
• Strong financial acumen, budgeting, and resource stewardship.
• Demonstrated public policy advocacy experience and effective stakeholder engagement.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, with ability to represent the organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of strategic plans aligning services, operations, and budget with mission.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, audit readiness and regulatory compliance.
• Advocate for policies with legislators, ELCA bodies, and public partners.
• Lead fundraising and donor relations to support program expansion and sustainability.
• Build and sustain relationships with state officials, partners, and communities across Illinois.

Skills

Exceptional communication skills

Strategic leadership

Financial stewardship

Public policy advocacy

Willingness to travel statewide

Job description

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) has engaged SkyWater Search Partners to identify a President and Chief Executive Officer. The CEO will lead a 1,250-person nonprofit with a $162M budget, directing strategic plans, fundraising, and statewide advocacy across more than 60 locations in Illinois.

The role requires a mission-driven leader with deep financial acumen, exceptional communication, and a track record of managing complex organizations through evolving funding landscapes, including