Chief Executive Officer

If you are a stellar strategist, a skilled fundraiser, and passionate about supporting students and families, we’d love to talk to you!

The Houston ISD Education Foundation seeks a committed and experienced resource and partnership executive to lead their organization, setting and pursuing a dynamic fundraising strategy to bring resources to Houston ISD.

About the Houston ISD Foundation

The Houston ISD Foundation is an independent and institutionally-related nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing community resources, philanthropic contributions, and strategic partnerships to enhance educational opportunities for students in the Houston Independent School District (HISD). You can read more about our mission and our work here.

The Houston ISD Foundation is financially and operationally separate from Houston ISD, but works closely with district leadership and community stakeholders to ensure that its initiatives align with the needs of students and educators. While operating independently of HISD, the Foundation collaborates closely with district staff and leaders.

About the Role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the senior leader of the Houston ISD Foundation, responsible for driving the strategic vision, fundraising initiatives, operational effectiveness, and community engagement necessary to advance the Foundation’s mission. The CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors, donors, and key stakeholders to maximize philanthropic investments that support students, teachers, and schools within the district.

In light of the ongoing state intervention in HISD, this CEO will be a bridge-builder, communicating and investing the community, donors, and other stakeholders to financially support the betterment of students and educators in the district.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision (20%)

Develop and execute a strategic plan to expand the Foundation’s impact and identify areas of alignment between HISD and the philanthropic community.

Cultivate a strong relationship with HISD leadership to identify key funding needs and opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

Monitor and report on the Foundation’s impact, leveraging data to refine strategies and demonstrate effectiveness and results.

Fundraising & Resource Development (50%)

Design and lead the Foundation’s fundraising efforts, including major gifts, individual giving, corporate partnerships, grants, and annual giving campaigns.

Develop and deepen relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and philanthropic entities.

Identify and implement innovative funding strategies to diversify revenue streams and grow the Foundation’s endowment.

Board & Stakeholder Engagement (20%)

Partner with the Board of Directors to set strategic goals, ensure fiscal health, and engage members in fundraising efforts.

Represent the Foundation at public events, media engagements, and community forums to enhance visibility and credibility.

Engage with community leaders and government agencies to support the work of the Foundation.

Organizational Operations & Financial Oversight (10%)

Ensure the Foundation operates with transparency, accountability, and in alignment with nonprofit best practices.

Coach and manage a team of two full-time staff members, fostering a culture of achievement and inclusivity.

Oversee the Foundation’s financial management, ensuring sustainability and compliance with nonprofit regulations.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, education, or related field preferred.

7-10 years in fundraising, philanthropy, and/or non profit leadership, .

Relevant or proximate experiences will be considered.

Record of results raising or managing at least 7M annually, through a mix of corporate and individual giving, events, and grants, strongly preferred

Experience and understanding of the Houston education and philanthropic landscape, preferred.

Prior experience advancing the strategic work of a mission-driven organization through executive leadership, board advisement, or management consulting, .

Strong financial acumen and experience managing a budget of at least 3M, preferred.

Prior experience managing others, preferred.

Prior experience working closely with or reporting directly to a board, preferred.

Skills & Attributes

Compelling leader with the ability to inspire donors, partners, and staff to achieve strategic priorities.

Builder of strong, authentic relationships grounded in mutual respect and transparency.

Strong public speaking and communication skills, particularly in addressing community concerns.

Ability to set and pursue ambitious goals, including ongoing progress monitoring, pivoting and reflecting.

Passion for public education and a commitment to equity and student success.

Role Details

Location: Houston, with a flexible schedule.

Reports to: Board of Directors

Salary: The salary band starts at 170k

Start Date: August 1, 2025

How to Apply

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and you can expect an update on your application within 7 days of applying.

This process will be managed by our search partner, WorkTogether Talent Consulting. If you have any questions, reach out to Sarah Mueller at .