Executive Director

Nonpartisan Colorado Springs-based nonprofit is seeking an Executive Director!

What They Do

This client of Birdie is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing equity, inclusion, and democratic participation in the Pikes Peak region. They educate and engage the community through nonpartisan voter education, civic engagement initiatives, and public forums, while advocating for civil rights and accountable government. Their work empowers residents to participate meaningfully in democracy and shape public policy at the local level.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Citizens Project is seeking an Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of impact. The Executive Director is a strategic leader who partners with the Board of Directors to advance a clear and inclusive vision for Citizens Project. Reporting to the Board, this role is responsible for leading the organization’s programs, staff, volunteers, and execution of the mission. As Executive Director, you’ll serve as the organization’s public spokesperson, build coalitions, and lead the fundraising engine that powers the work.

You’ll steer high-impact civic engagement and advocacy, such as voter guides, voter education, educational workshops, and advocacy campaigns, ensuring more residents are informed, engaged, and equipped to shape public life.

What You Will Do

• Partner with the Board to develop and implement the organization's strategic plan
• Serve as a passionate advocate for civic participation and community empowerment aligned with the mission, vision, and values of the organization
• Serve as an effective spokesperson for Citizens Project, representing the programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations, media, and the general public
• Recruit, lead, and retain an effective staff and volunteer team, providing overall leadership and direction for organizational performance
• Lead fundraising efforts, including grants, individual giving, and donor stewardship; identify new funding opportunities and diversity revenue streams
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with major donors, sponsors, and foundations
• Oversee the planning and execution of programs including voter guides, educational workshops, and advocacy campaigns
• Evaluate program effectiveness and make data informed improvements as needed
• Stay informed about policy developments and civic trends relevant to the mission
• Oversee budgeting and financial management, including developing and monitoring the annual budget, tracking financial performance, and partnering with the Board on financial planning
• Develop annual program goals, budget, and cash flow projections to be approved by the Board before the fiscal year begins
• Ensure compliance with all legal, fiscal, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain a strong relationship with the board; serve as an ex officio member and provide support to board committees
• Cultivate partnerships with allied organizations and local leaders, and proactively build coalitions that serve our mission

What You Will Bring To Our Organization

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management or related field preferred, relevant experience may be substituted
• At least 5 years of relevant experience, ideally nonprofit leadership, advocacy, or public policy
• Demonstrated commitment to civic engagement, democracy, and social justice
• Demonstrated success in financial management and nonprofit fundraising
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Basic bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus

Citizens Project values a broad range of lived, professional, and volunteer experiences. We encourage individuals who are excited about our mission and believe they could contribute meaningfully to apply, even if their experience does not align perfectly with every listed requirement.

What Our Organization Is Providing

• Annual salary range of $90,000 - $110,000 based on experience
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• PTO + Paid Holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Citizens Project provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics. In addition to federal law requirements, Citizens Project complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination.

Citizens Project will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants for failing to disclose wage rate history in accordance with applicable law.

Citizens Project expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, genetic information, disability or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Citizens Project employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.