What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at Equi-librium?
About Us
Founded in 1981, Equi-librium is a dynamic 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with physical, developmental, and behavioral challenges through equine-assisted services. Operating from our historic 18-acre farm in Nazareth, PA, we are proud to be one of only eight PATH International Premier Accredited Centers in the Commonwealth. Serving over 100 participants weekly with a dedicated staff of 30 and more than 200 volunteers, we provide adaptive riding, therapeutic carriage driving, equine-assisted learning, and hippotherapy.
Position Summary
The Board of Directors is seeking an inspiring, strategic, and operationally sound Executive Director to lead Equi-librium into its next chapter of growth and community impact. The Executive Director serves as the chief administrator, responsible for the overall strategic direction, financial health, fundraising leadership, staff management, and community relations of the organization.
This individual will champion our mission, ensure fiscal sustainability, and foster a collaborative, safe environment for our human staff, dedicated volunteers, participants, and equine partners.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Partner closely with the Board of Directors to execute the strategic plan, provide transparent operational and financial updates, and support board committee initiatives.
- Serve as the primary public face and ambassador for Equi-librium across the Lehigh Valley and Pocono regions.
Fundraising & Financial Management
- Lead diversification of revenue streams, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, annual appeals, capital campaigns, and foundation grants.
- Oversee the annual budget, ensure robust fiscal controls, and manage the organization’s financial health in partnership with the Board Treasurer.
- Maximize funding opportunities through programs like the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and local endowment funds.
Operations & Staff Management
- Provide supportive leadership and professional development to a dedicated team, including program, equine operations, administrative, and facility directors.
- Ensure compliance with all PATH International Premier Accredited Center standards, safety regulations, and nonprofit best practices.
- Oversee the operational and physical needs of the 18-acre farm facility and infrastructure.
Community Engagement & Partnerships
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local healthcare providers, school districts, intermediate units, and partner nonprofit organizations.
- Enhance community awareness through outreach initiatives, including our Mobile Miniature Horse program.
Qualifications
Required:
- Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years of senior leadership or executive-level experience, preferably within a nonprofit organization, healthcare, or human services environment.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Finance, or a related field (Master’s or MBA preferred).
- Fundraising Track Record: Proven success in donor cultivation, grant management, and executing successful fundraising events or campaigns.
- Financial Acumen: Deep experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal management for complex operations.
- Leadership Style: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to lead, motivate, and collaborate with a diverse group of staff, volunteers, and board members.
Preferred:
- Experience working with horses strongly preferred
- Knowledge of or familiarity with equine-assisted services, therapeutic riding, or PATH International standards.
- Existing connections within the Lehigh Valley and/or Pocono region philanthropic and business communities.
- Experience managing facility operations or small agricultural/farm properties.
Schedule & Work Environment
- Full-time position based on-site at our facility in Nazareth, PA.
- Requires occasional evening and weekend hours to attend board meetings, support premier fundraising events, or represent the organization at community functions.
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- fundraising and grant writing: 5 years (Required)
- managing staff as executive or senior management level: 4 years (Required)
Work Location: In person