Executive Director

Catalyst Cayuga (“Catalyst”) strengthens not-for-profit organizations in Cayuga County, NY by enhancing their leadership, partnership, and capacity to drive progress towards a community where all people thrive. Through professional development programs, peer learning networks, technical assistance, and cross-sector convenings, the organization plays a unique role in strengthening sector infrastructure, serving as a convener and partner, helping organizations connect, access resources, and work collaboratively to address community challenges.

As we continue to grow our impact, Catalyst is seeking its first Executive Director. This position works closely with the Board of Directors to lead and expand capacity-building programs, secure and steward resources to sustain and grow programs, and serve as the organization's primary ambassador and community connector.

The ideal candidate understands the mission-driven sector, has strong relationship-building skills, sees leadership as enabling others to succeed, and values collaboration as a pathway to community impact. They listen deeply, build trust across differences, and translate ideas into programs and partnerships that lead to positive change.

Responsibilities

Management/General
● Build the capacity of not-for-profit organizations, including their boards, leaders, and staff, by coordinating and providing peer support, professional development, and coaching.

● Interact with multiple stakeholders across sectors to enhance learning, leadership, and organizational development for organizations of all sizes and missions.

● Lead Catalyst’s communications and outreach to increase sector engagement and program participation and increase public awareness of our work.

● Serve as the primary representative of Catalyst at community events and meetings.

● Prepare and manage Catalyst’s budget and finances, in coordination with Catalyst’s contracted part-time accountant and the board treasurer.

● Develop a comprehensive fundraising plan. Research and apply for funding opportunities that support program goals, including grants, sponsorships, individual gifts, and others.

● Supervise Catalyst’s contracted part-time administrative coordinator to ensure that programs are well-coordinated, executed, and evaluated through data-driven metrics.

● Report to the Board of Directors on program implementation and evaluation.

● Other duties, as necessary, to advance Catalyst’s strategic goals.

Leadership Development
● Develop learning and leadership development sessions that are responsive to changing sector needs and aligned with Catalyst’s strategic initiatives.

● Manage Catalyst’s workshop and training programs. Identify relevant program topics and content, secure subject matter expert trainers, determine content and format, and manage program evaluation and learning outcomes. Serve as backup for workshop/training logistics management when needed.

● Serve as facilitator of Catalyst’s monthly peer learning cohorts.

● Develop information on available professional development resources and leading practices to be shared with the not-for-profit community.

Technical Assistance/Consulting Services
● Provide direct consultation and technical assistance to boards of directors, leaders, and organizations.

● Assist organizations in identifying consultants, coaches, and content experts that best support their programs and organizational capacity needs.

Project Management
● In conjunction with the event planning committee, organize the planning of the annual Not-For-Profit Summit.

● Coordinate new and emerging capacity building projects and programs as they arise.

● In coordination with the Catalyst Board of Directors, develop meaningful outcome measures to evaluate program effectiveness.

Required Qualifications
● At least three years of experience with delivering support, consulting, and/or capacity-building services to not-for-profit organizations

● Demonstrated knowledge of the not-for-profit sector

● Familiarity with the not-for-profit community in Cayuga County

● Strong facilitation and communication skills

● Strong organizational and project management skills

● Commitment to creating equitable and inclusive work and learning environments

Preferred Qualifications
● Knowledge of leadership and organizational development programs

● Ability to work with multiple stakeholder groups

● Experience applying for and managing grants

● Excellent writing, presenting, and public speaking skills

Reports to: Board of Directors. This is a remote position. Candidates are required to reside in the greater Cayuga County area.

Compensation: $35 per hour, 35 hours per week, with a competitive benefits package that includes four weeks paid time off plus 13 paid holidays, and a health insurance stipend.

If you are interested in this position but don’t meet all requirements, we still encourage you to apply. Catalyst is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.

Catalyst is an equal opportunity employer. All hiring, appointments, promotions, and terms/conditions of employment shall be made on merit and without discrimination on the basis of color, race, national or ethnic origin, gender identity, creed, sexual orientation or affectation, marital status, parenting status, age, religious preference, disability, economic status, political beliefs or veteran status.

How to Apply
Email cover letter and resume to [email protected] on or before March 20, 2026.

Pay: $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: Remote