Executive Director

WHO WE ARE

Fueled by passion and urgency, the National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. As pioneers of scientific research and innovation, NKF focuses on the whole patient through the lens of kidney health. Relentless in our work, we enhance lives through action, education, and accelerating change.

WHAT WE BELIEVE IN

NKF’s Mission is what we do, our Values are how we do it:

• Accountability- Earn and Keep Trust
• Collaboration-Work as a team
• Communication- Empower with information
• Community-Build stronger community
• Compassion- Lead with care and respect
• Impact-Focus on the mission

Your Voice Matters: https://www.kidney.org/about/diversity-equity-inclusion

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM

Make a Real Difference: Every day, you'll work on initiatives that directly save lives and improve health outcomes for kidney patients and their families.

Lead with Support: Partner with our Regional Vice President and national team while having the autonomy to drive local innovation and growth.

Professional Growth: Expand your expertise in a dynamic healthcare nonprofit environment with opportunities for advancement and professional development.

Community Impact: Build lasting relationships with medical professionals, community leaders, and dedicated volunteers who share your commitment to excellence.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

The Opportunity

Lead the charge in building healthier communities while making a profound impact on millions of lives. As Executive Director, you'll orchestrate a comprehensive strategy that transforms passion into action, relationships into resources, and vision into measurable outcomes.

What You'll Accomplish:

• Drive Revenue Growth: Build and execute innovative fundraising strategies across diverse channels including: corporate partnerships, individual giving, foundations, and signature events
• Inspire Community Impact: Cultivate meaningful relationships with key healthcare systems, medical professionals, and community leaders to expand our reach
• Lead with Purpose: Guide a dedicated team while partnering with engaged volunteers and leadership board members who share your commitment to excellence
• Shape the Future: Develop and implement market strategies that position NKF as the leading voice for kidney health in Tennessee

Your Leadership Impact

Strategic Fundraising

• Transform donor relationships into lasting partnerships. You'll manage a diverse revenue portfolio including corporate sponsors, individual major donors, foundations, and community events while building a donor-centric culture that drives sustainable growth

Team & Board Development

• Recruit, inspire, and retain top talent and volunteer leaders. You'll work closely with local leadership board members, ensuring 100% participation while building next generation of kidney health advocates

Program Excellence

• Champion life-saving programs including, Medical Professional Education, Patient Conferences, and Forums that directly impact patient outcomes and advance medical knowledge

Market Leadership

• Position NKF as the premier kidney health organization in Tennessee through strategic planning, community engagement, and innovative program delivery

Ready to Transform Lives?

• This role offers flexible scheduling, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to travel throughout Tennessee
• If you're a proven leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment and wants to make a lasting impact on kidney health, we want to hear from you

WHAT YOU’LL POSSESS

Essential Experience:

• Bachelor's degree and 8+ years of progressive fundraising success in the nonprofit sector
• Proven track record securing major gifts and grants
• Demonstrated leadership in volunteer engagement and board relations
• Corporate partnership development and stewardship experience

Your Leadership Style:

• Relationship Builder: You naturally connect with diverse stakeholders and turn conversations into commitments
• Strategic Thinker: You see the big picture while excelling at tactical execution
• Collaborative Leader: You inspire teams and volunteers to achieve extraordinary results
• Mission-Driven: You're energized by work that creates meaningful change in people's lives

Technical Excellence:

• Database proficiency (Salesforce preferred)
• Superior communication and presentation skills
• Budget management and financial analysis capabilities

WHAT WE OFFER

• Work/life Integration: Enjoy plenty of vacation time, sick leave, and holidays so you can recharge, regroup or reflect—and come back ready to tackle anything
• Support for Your Health: We've got your back with top-notch medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your loved ones
• Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing you're covered with life insurance and a 403(b) plan with matching company contributions to secure your future
• Creative savings: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts to save on eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Easy Commuting: Reduce your stress with our commuter benefits program for transit and parking expenses
• Support When You Need It: Access confidential counseling, support services, and resources through our Employee Assistance Program
• A Chance to Spread the Word: Share the love and earn rewards by referring awesome folks to join our team
• A Big Tent: We're all about creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard
• Mission-Fueled Culture: Join a team that's passionate about making a difference and guided by values like integrity, compassion, and innovation

WORKING CONDITIONS, EQUIPMENT USED AND SPECIAL INFORMATION

Ability to lift and transport equipment weighing up to 25 lbs. Flexible to work evenings and weekends as needed. Available for overnight business travel. Must have valid driver’s license, insurance and access to reliable transportation

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

At the National Kidney Foundation diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity applies to both our Equal opportunity employer-vets/disabled. NKF is a merit-based employer.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

The salary band listed reflects the range for this position. Actual compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.