United Way Central Kentucky Careers

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President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Reports to: United Way of Central KY Board of Directors

Position Overview
The President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of United Way Central Kentucky serves as the organization’s chief executive, strategist, and community impact leader. The CEO advances United Way’s mission to improve lives and strengthen communities by mobilizing the caring power of the community, inspiring collective action, driving measurable results in education, financial stability, health, and other locally identified priorities. As the leader of the Live United movement in Central Kentucky, the CEO builds trust and alignment across sectors to create lasting, equitable change.

Community Impact & Strategic Leadership
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive community impact agenda aligned with United Way Worldwide frameworks and local priorities. Champion data-informed, outcome-driven strategies that address root causes and improve long-term results. Advance collective impact approaches by aligning partners and resources around shared goals. Embed equity and inclusion across community investments, partnerships, and organizational practices.

Resource Development & Philanthropy
Lead a diversified resource development strategy that aligns and supports UWCK’s community impact agenda. This will include workplace campaigns, individual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and innovative revenue streams. Serve as the primary relationship manager for key donors, corporate leaders, and foundations. Promote a donor-centered culture focused on stewardship, transparency, and demonstrated impact. A successful CEO maximizes grants to funded partners through effective implementation of strategic development priorities.

Community Engagement & External Relations
Act as the chief spokesperson and visible leader for United Way Central Kentucky. Strengthen the organization’s role as a trusted convener and backbone organization. Build and sustain strong cross-sector partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, government, and civic leaders to advance shared community outcomes.

Organizational Leadership & Culture
Lead and support a high-performing staff team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous learning. Ensure effective organizational systems, talent development, and performance management aligned with United Way Worldwide standards and values.

Financial & Operational Stewardship
Oversee the financial health and sustainability of the organization, including budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. Ensure transparency, strong internal controls, and compliance with all legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements. Continuously evaluate organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

Board Partnership & Governance
Partner with the Board of Directors to support effective governance, strategic oversight, and board engagement. Provide timely and accurate reporting on community impact, financial performance, and organizational progress. Support board development, recruitment, and ambassadorial roles.

Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree required; Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience in a mission-driven, nonprofit, or community-based organization. Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor engagement, partnership development, team leadership, and financial management. Familiarity with community impact models, collective impact, and system-level change strongly preferred. Deep roots in the UWCK five-county service area (Hardin, LaRue, Meade, Breckinridge, Grayson counties) preferred.

Leadership Competencies & Attributes
Visionary and results-oriented leader with a strong commitment to equity and inclusion; exceptional relationship-building and communication skills; high integrity and ethical standards; ability to lead through influence and collaboration; passion for community impact and service.

Compensation & Benefits
Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. A comprehensive benefits package is provided.

Interested parties are encouraged to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter through the link below.

Position Close Date: Open until filled.

United Way of Central Kentucky is an equal opportunity employer. Successful candidate will be required to complete a state and federal background check prior to hiring. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.