Description

The Position

CARE is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and impact.  This individual will be responsible for driving revenue growth, strengthening community engagement, and advancing CARE’s mission and impact.

This role is ideal for a proven nonprofit leader who thrives in a high-touch, relationship-driven environment and brings both strategic vision and hands-on execution. The Executive Director will work in close partnership with an engaged Board of Directors while leading day-to-day operations and organizational performance.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

• Serve as the Executive Director for CARE, accountable for overall organizational performance, growth, and mission impact
• Partner with the Board of Directors to develop strategic priorities, with responsibility for execution and measurable results
• Identify and pursue opportunities to expand CARE’s reach, visibility, and long-term sustainability
• Position CARE as a leading cancer research fundraising organization in Arizona

Fundraising & Revenue Leadership

• Serve as CARE’s lead fundraiser, responsible for achieving and growing annual revenue (currently exceeding $1M)
• Design and execute a diversified fundraising strategy including major gifts, corporate sponsorships, donor campaigns, and signature events
• Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with key donors, sponsors, and community leaders
• Partner with the Board and volunteers to expand donor engagement and increase giving
• Utilize data, analytics, and CRM tools to improve donor retention, pipeline development, and lifetime value

Events, Auctions & Revenue Optimization

• Provide strategic oversight and hands-on leadership for all fundraising events, including auctions, raffles, and donor experiences
• Oversee and implement the procurement strategy to secure high-value, unique, and experiential auction items aligned with a high-net-worth audience
• Optimize event performance through pricing, packaging, storytelling, and presentation

Board & Stakeholder Partnership

• Work in close partnership with the Board of Directors to align on strategy, financial performance, and organizational priorities
• Provide regular reporting on fundraising performance, financial health, and key initiatives
• Support and engage board members in fundraising and ambassador roles

Team & Volunteer Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and support staff, committees, and volunteers in a collaborative, mission-driven culture
• Provide direction to committees (including procurement and events) with clear goals, accountability, and recognition
• Foster a high-performing environment aligned with CARE’s values and growth objectives

Community & External Relations

• Serve as the public face and primary spokesperson for CARE
• Strengthen relationships with research partners, donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders
• Expand CARE’s visibility and influence across the Phoenix and Scottsdale philanthropic landscape

Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and organizational excellence
• Manage budget execution and financial performance in partnership with the Board
• Implement systems and processes that enhance transparency and long-term sustainability

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred
• 5+ years of nonprofit leadership experience with increasing responsibility
• Proven success in fundraising, including major gifts, sponsorships, and events
• Experience working closely with and reporting to a Board of Directors
• Strong financial acumen and budget management experience
• Demonstrated ability to grow revenue and scale programs
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills
• Highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities

Preferred Experience 

• Background in healthcare, cancer research, or mission-driven organizations
• Experience engaging high-net-worth donor communities
• Familiarity with the Phoenix/Scottsdale philanthropic landscape
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on, “player-coach” leadership style