Description
POSITION SUMMARY
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer, providing visionary leadership to advance Hindman Settlement School’s mission. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will manage all aspects of the organization—including staff, programs, facilities, finances, development and outreach—to achieve both immediate operational excellence and long-term strategic impact. This role requires a collaborative leader who inspires teams, builds strong partnerships, and drives innovation in service to the people of the mountains.
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS
- Strategic Leadership — Partner with the Board to develop, implement, and regularly evaluate a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns with the mission, vision, and evolving community needs.
- Change Management & Team Building — Act as a catalyst for positive change, fostering teamwork, cohesion, and resilience amid organizational transitions and regional challenges.
- Innovation & Mission Advancement — Identify and pursue creative opportunities to expand and promote programs that enhance literacy, combat food insecurity, preserve traditional arts, and support youth and families in Central Appalachia.
- Financial Stewardship — Oversee all organizational resources with fiscal responsibility, ensuring long-term sustainability. Provide the Board with regular data-driven reports, key metrics, and actionable recommendations to maintain financial health and transparency.
- Relationship Building — Cultivate and strengthen meaningful partnerships with the Board, staff, donors, community stakeholders, government entities, and other organizations to advance HSS goals and expand impact.
- Talent & Performance Management — Design and implement a robust performance management system that supports employee growth, accountability, and high-quality service delivery. Recruit, develop, and lead a dedicated team committed to the mission.
- Campus & Operational Excellence — Ensure the campus remains welcoming, well-maintained, clean, and fully functional, supporting all programs and serving as a proud symbol of the organization’s heritage and values.
- Governance & Trust — Uphold the highest standards of ethical governance, transparency, and best practices to preserve public trust and organizational integrity.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS FOR POSITION
- Proven executive leadership experience in non-profit organizations, preferably in education, community development, cultural preservation, or rural service delivery.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, fundraising, and resource allocation in resource-constrained environments.
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders, including boards, donors, community leaders, and partners.
- Passion for and knowledge of Appalachia, its people, and its cultural heritage; understanding of rural Eastern Kentucky challenges is expected.
- Experience leading staff by utilizing practices that foster an inclusive culture, clearly communicate goals, set criteria for productivity and accountability, and build trust. Demonstrated ability to empower, support, and coach staff to advance the institutional mission.
- Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and change management skills.
- Commitment to innovation, data-informed decision-making, and inclusive leadership.
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
Note: Salary based on Experience.
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
- Willingness and ability to travel both regionally and nationally for meetings, conferences, fundraising, and partnership development.
- Residency in Knott County or an adjacent county within reasonable driving distance of the Hindman Settlement School campus in Hindman, KY, to ensure strong local presence and responsiveness.
Why Hindman Settlement School?
Join a legacy organization that has transformed lives for over a century while remaining agile and responsive to today’s needs. As Executive Director, you will lead a dedicated team on a beautiful historic campus, making a tangible difference in one of America’s most resilient and culturally rich regions.
Hindman Settlement School is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates who reflect the communities we serve.
To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and references to jobs@hindman.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
