Executive Director, Southern California Chapter

The role

The Executive Director is the senior leader of the Chapter responsible for local strategy, revenue, community impact, and team performance. This person leads a metropolitan region and supports satellite program delivery through strategic partnerships and fundraising.

What you will do

• Develop and execute a Chapter Sustainability Plan tied to annual revenue and growth
• Secure major gifts from corporations, philanthropies, foundations, and high-net-worth individuals
• Lead stewardship and storytelling efforts to reinforce BSF mission
• Expand diversified revenue streams including corporate sponsorships and government opportunities
• Lead the Chapter's full operational portfolio including staff, volunteers, programs, and budget
• Manage, coach, and develop the Program Director/Manager and volunteer corps
• Recruit, develop, and steward a strategic local Advisory Board
• Cultivate relationships with VIPs, elected officials, and military installation leaders
• Build an ecosystem of civic, military, corporate, nonprofit, and philanthropic partners
• Serve as the Chapter's chief ambassador to advocate for military-connected families

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in community development, nonprofit leadership, or strategic partnerships
• 5+ years of management experience, including direct staff leadership
• Proven ability to secure significant philanthropic gifts (six-figure required)
• Demonstrated success in growing an organization, business unit, or major initiative
• Exceptional executive communication skills
• Experience managing an advisory board or similar governance structure
• Strong organizational management capability
• Ability to work effectively across diverse groups, cultures, and sectors
• Willingness to work nights/weekends for essential community events
• Less than 25% travel
• Ability to lift and carry supplies and equipment up to 30 lbs

Nice to have

• Experience using CRM systems
• Salesforce a plus
• Understanding of military culture and the lived experience of military families
• Knowledge of the Blue Star Families ecosystem and/or BSF programs
• Understanding of the collaborative network of nonprofits in the Southern California area

Benefits

• 403(b) with matching
• Flexible Spending
• Medical Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Communications Allowance
• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave for Active-Duty Military Spouses
• On-the-job professional development training
• Career growth opportunities
• Workplace flexibility

Before you apply

• Must reside within the Chapter's primary metropolitan area (minimum three consecutive years) or have extensive experience in the area and be willing to relocate to reside in the area

About the company

Blue Star Families is the largest nonprofit dedicated to making military life better for families. They support over 1.5 million military- and veteran-connected family members through a national network of members and local chapters.