Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer United Way Quad Cities Bettendorf, IA, USA Published: Published 1 week ago Leadership / Executive Board | Full time | 3 - 5 years of experience | $170,000 - $200,000 per year Chief Executive Officer United Way Quad Cities Apply United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) Location: Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois Relocation Assistance Available — Residency in the Quad Cities Region Required Lead one of the Quad Cities’ most trusted nonprofits, advancing measurable outcomes in education, financial security, and health across a dynamic regional community. A Trusted Community Leader with Expanding Impact ThinkingAhead Executive Search is partnering with United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) to identify its next Chief Executive Officer, an exceptional leader ready to guide one of the region’s most respected and influential nonprofit organizations. United Way Quad Cities serves approximately 350,000 residents across eastern Iowa and western Illinois, advancing measurable outcomes in education, financial security, and health, three interconnected drivers of long-term community vitality. With annual revenue of $6–$6.5 million, strong financial reserves, and partnerships with more than 75 nonprofit organizations, school districts, and regional employers, UWQC operates as a trusted backbone organization, aligning resources, funding, and partners to deliver measurable community impact. The Opportunity This is a next-stage leadership opportunity, not a turnaround. United Way Quad Cities enters this transition from a position of stability, strong partnerships, and growing momentum. The next CEO will guide the organization through its next chapter by strengthening relevance, expanding philanthropic engagement, and advancing long-term community outcomes. The role sits at the intersection of philanthropy, community leadership, and regional impact. The CEO will serve as a visible and trusted leader, aligning business executives, philanthropic investors, nonprofit partners, and civic institutions around shared priorities that improve lives across the Quad Cities region. This opportunity offers both organizational leadership and regional influence, making it uniquely positioned among nonprofit executive roles. Leadership Priorities The next CEO will focus on several critical leadership priorities: Advance Measurable Community Outcomes Lead implementation of long-term impact goals across education, workforce, and health, ensuring transparency and measurable progress. Elevate Philanthropic & Corporate Engagement Strengthen major gift strategies, corporate partnerships, and diversified fundraising models aligned to evolving philanthropic trends. Strengthen Organizational Sustainability Ensure strong financial stewardship, operational alignment, and continued investment in talent and infrastructure. Serve as a Regional Convener Act as a visible community leader who builds trust, fosters collaboration, and advances shared solutions across sectors. Key Responsibilities The CEO will serve as the organization’s chief strategist, fundraiser, and public ambassador. Board & Governance Leadership Partner closely with the Board of Directors on strategy and governance Support long-term planning and organizational alignment Financial & Operational Leadership Oversee a multi-million-dollar operating budget Ensure sound fiscal management, compliance, and sustainability Fundraising & External Leadership Lead diversified fundraising strategies Personally steward major donors and corporate investors Represent UWQC publicly across the region Organizational Leadership Lead and develop a high-performing leadership team Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and performance The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will bring a combination of strategic vision, fundraising leadership, and community credibility. Required Qualifications Progressive leadership experience, including senior executive or board-level responsibility Proven success in fundraising, revenue growth, and donor engagement Demonstrated ability to lead complex organizations and manage multi-million-dollar budgets Strong experience building cross-sector partnerships Experience leading strategic planning and organizational growth Familiarity with communities similar in size and complexity to the Quad Cities A bachelor’s degree from a four-year accredited college or university is preferred, along with 3–5 years of relevant experience. Equivalent experience will also be considered. Preferred Leadership Strengths Demonstrated success expanding diversified revenue streams Strong public presence and relationship-building capability Strategic leadership with strong operational discipline Ability to build internal alignment and develop talent Effective partnership with governing boards Nonprofit leadership experience is strongly valued; however, cross-sector leaders with demonstrated commitment to measurable community impact are encouraged to apply. Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $170,000 – $200,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits Include: Generous employer-supported retirement contributions Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage Paid time off and holidays Professional development opportunities Access to United Way national leadership networks Relocation assistance available Work Environment & Residency Requirement This position is based in the Quad Cities region, and the Chief Executive Officer is expected to reside in and be fully engaged in the community. The CEO serves as a highly visible leader, building relationships with donors, partners, civic leaders, and community stakeholders. Active participation in community meetings, events, and partnership initiatives is essential to advancing United Way Quad Cities’ mission. Candidates must be willing to relocate to and reside within the Quad Cities region. Relocation assistance is available to support this transition. Living and Leading in the Quad Cities Located along the Mississippi River, the Quad Cities region offers the amenities of a metropolitan area combined with the affordability and accessibility of a mid-sized community. Often referred to as the “Creative Capital of the Midwest,” the region offers strong schools, arts and cultural amenities, riverfront recreation, and a welcoming civic environment, making it an attractive place to build both a career and a life. Explore the Quad Cities To explore the Quad Cities more fully, including neighborhoods, schools, recreation, cultural amenities, and lifestyle offerings, we invite you to explore the following resources: Visit Quad Cities website Our Destination Guide Relocation Resources Our QC Communities About ThinkingAhead Executive Search United Way Quad Cities has retained ThinkingAhead Executive Search, a nationally recognized executive search firm, to lead this recruitment. If you are interested in exploring this opportunity, please apply using this link. Confidential inquiries and nominations are welcome. For additional information or questions, please contact: Kay Linder Partner, Nonprofit Practice ThinkingAhead Executive Search klinder@thinkingahead.com

Salary : $170,000 - $200,000