Overview
Executive Director Jobs in Greater Chicago Area at GENCenter
Title: Executive Director
Company: GENCenter
Location: Greater Chicago Area
📍 Location: GENCenter (Serving Des Plaines & Mount Prospect Communities)
Are you a passionate leader driven to make a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults? We are seeking a dynamic Executive Director (ED) to lead our nonprofit organization and guide its mission of serving the senior population in the greater Des Plaines and Mount Prospect communities.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic, community-focused leader to shape the future of a growing organization while fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and service.
💼 About the Role
The Executive Director serves as the chief leader of the organization, responsible for overall management, strategic direction, and operational excellence. Reporting to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors, the ED will:
• Drive mission-focused leadership and long-term sustainability
• Oversee daily operations, staff, and organizational performance
• Lead fundraising and revenue generation efforts
• Build strong relationships across the community and stakeholder network
🔑 Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership & Strategy
• Conduct strategic assessments and implement improvements across programs and operations
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards
• Strengthen organizational systems and infrastructure
Financial & Asset Management
• Develop and manage annual and long-range budgets
• Oversee resource allocation and financial stewardship
• Partner with the Board on investment strategies
Team Leadership & Human Resources
• Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing team
• Foster a collaborative, mission-driven workplace culture
• Ensure HR compliance and policy oversight
Fundraising & Development
• Lead comprehensive fundraising strategies, including grants, campaigns, and events
• Cultivate and steward donor and partner relationships
• Expand sustainable funding sources
Community & External Relations
• Serve as the organization’s ambassador
• Build partnerships with government agencies, nonprofits, and community stakeholders
• Oversee marketing, communications, and public relations efforts
Board Partnership
• Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors
• Support board development and recruitment
• Serve as a corporate officer and Registered Agent
✅ Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or
related field preferred
• Minimum 5+ years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations
• Proven track record in fundraising and organizational growth
• Strong commitment to serving older adults and community impact
• Exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and communication skills
💡 What We’re Looking For
• A collaborative, visionary leader
• A strong relationship-builder with community presence
• A strategic thinker with operational expertise
• A passionate advocate for seniors and community well-being
📅 Work Environment
• Primarily office-based with community engagement
• Flexibility required for evenings and weekends
• Occasional physical activity (standing, walking, lifting up to 40 lbs.)
⭐Available Benefits
• Vacation time
• Sick Time
• IRA match up to 3%
• Cell phone reimbursement
📌 Additional Details
• Classification: Exempt
• Reports To: Executive Committee of the Board
• Supervises: All Staff
🚀 Ready to Lead & Make an Impact?
If you’re ready to shape the future of a mission-driven organization and make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you. Interested individuals can inquire directly to: Colette Gentile ([email protected]) or Sharon Lynch ([email protected]).
👉 Apply today or share with someone who would be a great fit!
