Executive Director

Overview Aim High St. Louis is a nonprofit summer learning and enrichment program serving middle school students from under-resourced communities. In partnership with institutions such as John Burroughs School and local school districts, Aim High provides joyful academic and enrichment experiences that build confidence, belonging, and exposure to new opportunities. For more than 30 years, Aim High has helped students prepare for success in high school and beyond.

The Opportunity We are seeking a hands-on, mission-driven Executive Director to lead the organization through an important period of transformation and into its next chapter.

This is a builder–leader role in a lean organization where the Executive Director will serve as both a strategic leader and entrepreneurial operator. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors to strengthen financial sustainability, expand community partnerships, and ensure a joyful and well-run program for students.

In many ways, this position represents a founding-style leadership opportunity ideal for a leader energized by building systems, strengthening relationships, and guiding an established mission into a renewed phase of growth.

Key Priorities

Fundraising & Financial Sustainability

Lead and execute fundraising strategy and donor engagement

Develop and manage the annual budget

Cultivate and steward individual, foundation, and community partners

Support board fundraising efforts

Program Excellence

Ensure smooth, safe, and engaging summer programming for approximately 225–275 students

Oversee logistics, including staffing, schedules, transportation, meals, and safety

Monitor program quality and student experience

Community Partnerships

Strengthen relationships with partner school districts and community organizations

Collaborate with partners such as John Burroughs School and Washington University

Communicate clearly with families and stakeholders

Core Responsibilities

Serve as the organization’s chief fundraiser and public representative

Lead operational planning and program readiness for summer programming

Manage finances with transparency and discipline

Recruit and support seasonal staff and program leaders

Partner closely with the Board of Directors on governance and strategy

Measure program impact and communicate outcomes to stakeholders

Qualifications

Strong candidates will bring:

Demonstrated fundraising experience, including donor cultivation and solicitation

Financial literacy and experience managing a nonprofit or program budget

Experience leading programs in resource-constrained environments

Strong operational and organizational leadership skills

Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent leadership experience preferred

Who Will Thrive in This Role

This role is a strong fit for someone who:

Enjoys building and strengthening organizations

Is comfortable rolling up their sleeves

Can confidently ask for philanthropic support

Stays calm during high-pressure periods

Believes joy, safety, belonging, and opportunity are essential outcomes for young people

How to Apply Please submit a resume and cover letter describing your fundraising experience and interest in Aim High’s mission to: info at aimhighstl.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Salary is commensurate with work experience.

Aim High St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its staff and leadership.

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