Executive Director

Nov 12

Children First
Philadelphia, PA

Anticipated Start Date: TBD

Description

Children First stands at an exciting moment in its long and respected history as the organization prepares for the transition of its longtime leader. As a trusted, nonpartisan voice for Philadelphia’s children, the next Executive Director (ED) will advance policies that strengthen education, health, and family stability through thoughtful advocacy, data-driven insights, and coalition-building.

With a $5.2M budget, a team of 30 talented and deeply committed staff, and a powerful reputation for impact, the organization is entering its next chapter from a position of real strength and ready to build on its legacy and shape a new era of leadership and influence. The next ED will be a driven and thoughtful leader who thrives on bringing clarity and alignment amid complexity; they will be nimble, opportunistic, and able to work well with partners.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will identify and implement strategic solutions that drive meaningful results while remaining true to Children First’s mission and values. The ideal candidate will bring political savvy, strong team leadership, and the ability to navigate nuanced environments with sensitivity and diplomacy.

As the organization’s chief spokesperson, the ED will represent Children First through media engagements, public speaking, and partnerships with aligned organizations and coalitions by further elevating the organization’s visibility and impact across Pennsylvania. The ED will leverage Children First’s bipartisan credibility to advance policy and systems change at the local and state levels.

The next leader will inspire and guide a mission-driven team, fostering an inclusive and empowering culture where staff can bring their authentic selves to work. This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the Commonwealth’s most influential child advocacy organizations at a moment when the need for courageous, collaborative leadership has never been greater.

Requirements

We recognize that there is a spectrum of experience that will set candidates up for success in this role. While no one candidate will have every experience outlined in the position description, ideal candidates will display the following professional and personal qualities, skills, and characteristics:

Commitment to Mission, Policy, and Advocacy

Champions initiatives to ensure every child has access to essential resources, aligning action with Children First’s mission
Navigates the political landscape with integrity and nonpartisan credibility
Data-driven leader who can draw from community insights to execute actionable policy priorities that improve outcomes for children and families across the five-county Greater Philadelphia region
Experience working on large scale advocacy and engagement campaigns and initiatives and legislative agendas

External Ambassador and Fund Development

Serve as a genuine thought-leader for the organization in public settings and events and participate on behalf of Children First at selected tables or in collaborative efforts
Develops and maintains relationships with nonprofit, community, and state leaders to advance initiatives and vision
Partner with development staff and board members to identify and cultivate prospective donors and funding opportunities
Support fundraising efforts by representing Children First in donor meetings, grant discussions, and community engagement initiatives

Strategic and Visionary Thinker

Collaborates with the Board and staff to implement and advance a strategic plan that drives measurable impact for children and families across Greater Philadelphia
Translates organizational strategy into clear, actionable initiatives that align mission, resources, and community outcomes
Able to simultaneously advance big picture strategic thinking with on-the-ground execution
Inspires and motivates staff, partners, and stakeholders to think creatively, embrace innovative solutions, and take thoughtful, mission-driven risks
Harnesses and advances staff talents and energy

Organizational Leadership

Ability to lead a complex, mission-driven organization with a focus on operational excellence, financial stewardship, integrity, and accountability
Builds strong systems, clear communication, and a healthy culture that supports staff and staff development
Oversees all operational and administrative functions, ensuring resources, programs, and initiatives are aligned, effective, and efficient
Fosters collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement across the organization

Salary Range and Employee Benefits

The salary range for this position is $225,000 to $275,000. Children First offers an excellent benefits package that includes full family medical (including contributions toward the deductible), dental, and vision, as well as other great benefits such as four weeks’ vacation and 17 paid holidays.

How to Apply for this Job

Apply Now

About the Organization

Executive Director About Children First Children First (formerly Public Citizens for Children and Youth) is a leading child advocacy and policy organization dedicated to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. Headquartered in Philadelphia and working across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Children First champions policies and programs that expand access to quality health care, education, and family supports for children and youth in the Greater Philadelphia region. For more than four decades, Children First has been a trusted voice for children by turning data into action, mobilizing communities, and driving systemic change that advances racial and economic equity.

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