What are the responsibilities and job description for the President and CEO position at Dakota Boys & Girls Ranch?
Lead a ministry of healing, hope, and transformation.
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch is seeking an inspiring, faith-driven leader to serve as its next President and CEO as the organization prepares for the retirement of its longtime CEO. The next CEO will build upon a strong legacy while leading the Ranch into its next season of impact, growth, and innovation.
The Opportunity
The President and CEO serves as the chief executive leader of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, providing strategic, operational, and ministry leadership across a complex organization dedicated to serving children, youth, and families. Working closely with the Boards of Directors, executive leadership team, community partners, and donors, the CEO will advance the Ranch's mission while ensuring long-term sustainability and organizational excellence. The role provides leadership across the Ranch's treatment, educational, mental health, fundraising, and retail operations while shaping the future of this faith-based ministry.
Key Priorities
- Strengthen financial sustainability and diversify revenue streams.
- Expand fundraising, donor engagement, and community partnerships.
- Position the Ranch as the provider of choice for children's behavioral health and residential services.
- Lead strategic growth and innovation in an evolving healthcare and social services environment.
- Foster a culture rooted in Christian faith, servant leadership, accountability, and excellence.
The Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will be a visionary, collaborative leader with significant executive leadership experience in a complex organization, preferably within social services, healthcare, behavioral health, education, or a related field. Candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking, relationship-building expertise, fundraising capability, strong business acumen, and a commitment to Christian faith and service.
Why This Role Matters
This is a unique opportunity to lead one of North Dakota's most respected faith-based ministries and make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. The next CEO will help shape the future of the Ranch while advancing its mission of hope, healing, and transformation.
To Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to review the full position description below for additional details regarding qualifications, leadership expectations, and organizational opportunities.
Submit an updated Resume/CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in the position and your qualifications to:
Jennifer Quast Johnsrud
Chair, Search Committee
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Boards of Directors
BoardChair@DakotaRanch.org
Application Deadline: September 15, 2026
The full position description is available below.