Apply
Job SummaryPresident & Chief Executive Officer, Woody Williams Foundation, Louisville, KY
About the Foundation
The Woody Williams Foundation (WWF) exists to honor, recognize, and serve Gold Star Families and the legacy of their Loved Ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Through the creation of Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments, outreach programs, education, and national awareness efforts, the Foundation carries forward the vision of Hershel “Woody” Williams to ensure that the service and sacrifice of Gold Star Families are never forgotten.
Position Summary
The President & CEO is the chief executive leader and ambassador of the Foundation, responsible for advancing its mission, safeguarding its values, and ensuring organizational sustainability. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President & CEO provides strategic leadership, drives fundraising and development efforts, manages operations and staff, and represents the Foundation to stakeholders, donors, and the public. The next leader must be mission-driven, results-oriented, and capable of stabilizing the organization while positioning it for growth. The top priorities are:
1. Mission Execution – Ensure all actions uphold and strengthen the Foundation’s mission and service to Gold Star Families.
2. Development & Fundraising – Drive fundraising strategies that grow and diversify revenue to ensure financial stability and long-term impact.
3. Organizational Stability & Growth – Strengthen operations, rebuild trust with stakeholders, and develop a high-performing team aligned with mission values.
Job ResponsibilitiesKey Responsibilities
Mission & Strategic Leadership
- Lead with integrity, ensuring all programs and initiatives align with the mission and vision of the Foundation.
- Develop, communicate, and execute a strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Directors.
- Serve as the visible leader and spokesperson of the Foundation, advocating for Gold Star Families nationwide. Development & Fundraising
- Design and lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including major gifts, corporate partnerships, grants, and events.
- Cultivate and steward strong relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and partner organizations.
- Ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with donor intent in all fundraising activities.
Organizational & Financial Management
- Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and fiscal responsibility.
- Develop and manage budgets, ensuring resources are aligned with mission priorities.
- Provide clear and consistent communication with the Board and stakeholders regarding organizational performance.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, mentor, and retain a mission-driven team of staff and volunteers.
- Foster a collaborative, accountable, and values-based culture.
- Establish performance metrics and accountability systems that ensure staff and organizational effectiveness.
Program Development & Outreach
- Evaluate and improve programs that honor, recognize, and serve Gold Star Families.
- Strengthen outreach initiatives and partnerships with communities, government agencies, and allied organizations.
- Ensure all programs have a measurable impact and reflect the Foundation’s values.
Required
- Proven leadership experience in nonprofit or related sectors, with demonstrated ability to execute mission-driven strategy.
- Hybrid Position- Min 3 days in the office per week.
- Extensive travel required, up to 5-10 days per month.
- Strong record of success in fundraising and development, with ability to secure significant philanthropic support.
- Financial acumen, with experience managing nonprofit budgets and resources responsibly.
- Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to inspire and engage diverse stakeholders, including families, donors, volunteers, and partner organizations.
Preferred
- Experience working with veteran or Gold Star Family communities.
- Track record of organizational turnaround, stabilization, or growth.
- Advanced degree in nonprofit management, communications, or related field.
Compensation
- $75,000 – $100,000 based on experience.
- Health stipend and benefits package.
- Paid time off and professional development opportunities.
Interested candidatesshould submit the below listed application materials to Gregory Nielsen at gregory@nielsenconsults.com :
- Resume or CV
- Cover letter detailing their experience and commitment to the mission
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- Date Posted: November 7, 2025
- Type: Full-Time
- Job Function: Administrative
- Service Area: Board Leadership
- Start Date: 01/01/2026
- Salary Range: 75,000-100,000
- Working Hours: 40 hrs/wk 9:00-5:00
Freqently Asked Questions
Success as a President And CEO in nonprofits, such as the Woody Williams Foundation, hinges on mission-driven leadership, strategic vision, and exceptional stakeholder communication. The ability to inspire teams, manage fundraising initiatives, and navigate complex organizational challenges is critical for driving growth and impact.
The President And CEO shapes long-term direction by aligning programs with the foundation’s mission, spearheading fundraising, and fostering partnerships. This role ensures sustainability and growth by balancing operational oversight with advocacy, thereby enhancing support networks for Gold Star families nationwide.
Daily tasks often involve overseeing staff, managing budgets, engaging with donors, and representing the foundation publicly. In Louisville’s nonprofit landscape, this role demands balancing administrative duties with community outreach to strengthen local support and visibility.
Louisville offers a moderate competitive environment for top executive nonprofit roles due to its growing philanthropic sector. Candidates with a proven track record in fundraising and community engagement tend to stand out in this market.
Compensation for nonprofit Presidents and CEOs in Louisville typically ranges between $75,000 and $100,000 annually, reflecting sector standards and organizational size. Benefits and professional development opportunities often complement this package to attract qualified leaders.
At Center For Nonprofit Management, the President And CEO is empowered to innovate fundraising and program strategies that amplify service to Gold Star families. The organization emphasizes transparent leadership and stakeholder engagement aligned with its core values.
Collaboration involves strategic alignment on nonprofit best practices, resource sharing, and joint advocacy efforts. The President And CEO acts as a liaison to enhance operational efficiency and broaden reach through partnerships fostered by the Center For Nonprofit Management.
Credentials like advanced degrees in nonprofit management or communications are highly regarded. Proven experience with veteran or Gold Star family communities and successful organizational growth initiatives can significantly boost candidacy in Louisville’s nonprofit sector.
Absolutely. Serving as a President And CEO provides a platform to build influential networks and refine executive skills, paving the way for roles in larger nonprofits or advisory capacities. It’s a pivotal step for impactful leadership in the nonprofit domain.
Mastering diversified revenue streams, including major gifts and corporate partnerships, is vital. A successful President And CEO excels at donor stewardship, transparent reporting, and crafting compelling narratives that resonate with philanthropic stakeholders.
Find The Related Jobs
V-soft Consulting Inc
Vice President, Digital Practice
Louisville, KY