Interim Executive Director

Location: Chapel Hill, NC
Position: Interim Executive Director

SUMMARY:

Working under the general guidance of the Board of Directors and reporting to the team at Radiate Works, the Interim Executive Director will serve as the chief executive of the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership (CHDP). This role is responsible for overseeing daily operations, advancing the organization’s mission to make downtown Chapel Hill a vibrant place to live, work, and visit, and ensuring continuity and momentum in the planning and execution of the three-year strategic plan. The Interim Executive Director will focus efforts on building a diverse and sustainable funding program and ensure significant progress toward a re-imagined mission. The Interim Executive Director will act as the primary external representative of CHDP, manage a small staff and/or contractors, and work collaboratively with the Town of Chapel Hill, UNC-Chapel Hill, downtown businesses, and the broader community. This interim position is intended to maintain stability and provide exceptional leadership during the organization’s transition period. This person will execute a set of deliverables on priorities as directed by the Board providing regular reports on progress, challenges and opportunities. The duration and scope of the role may evolve based on organizational needs and Board direction.

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage annual budget and operations within budget guidelines
• Provide direct leadership and guidance to CHDP staff and contractors and foster a culture of support and accountability
• Oversee existing grant proposals and projects, ensuring compliance, tracking milestones and preparing interim and final reports to funders and stakeholders as required
• Establish operational systems including project and grant management
• Develop fundraising plan to include both annual giving activities and cultivation of major gifts with the goal of diversifying funding streams
• Actively engage and collaborate with town officials, university leadership, local businesses, and community partners to maintain and enhance collaboration
• Oversee all communications including newsletter, social media and event marketing
• Identify new opportunities to enhance CHDP’s mission

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience in executive leadership within the nonprofit sector, including working with a wide variety of stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to manage day-to-day operations while advancing strategic priorities
• Track record of developing and executing on fundraising plans
• Demonstrated ability to prepare grant applications and manage grant requirements
• Strong skills in financial management
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Experience working with Boards of Directors

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES:

• Prior experience managing organizational change and transitions
• Demonstrated success in navigating complex partnerships and diverse stakeholder interests
• Experience or familiarity with entrepreneurship
• Deep understanding of the town of Chapel Hill and UNC-CH

COMPENSATION:
Compensation is based on alignment of experience with emphasis on building operational systems and fundraising experience. A contract with specific deliverables will be negotiated with an anticipated 20-30/hour work week. Virtual and on-site work required. Availability to start immediately. Role has potential to transition to full-time after six months. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Elizabeth Benefield by August 15, 2025 (or until position is filled) at elizabeth@radiateworks.com.