Careers in Non-Profit Management

Non profit organizations need qualified management staff to oversee operations.

Have you considered a career in the non-profit sector? You can work for a charitable organization that provides assistance to the public in areas such as the arts, community development or disaster relief. Non profit careers include entry level positions and the ability to work your way into getting promoted to a management position within the organization. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary (in 2007) for non-profit management careers was approximately $71,000.

Executive Director

All non-profit organizations have a leader to guide it in completing its mission and overseeing the overall management of the agency. The executive director usually reports to the organization's board of directors and is responsible in making sure the non-profit organization is operating properly. Candidates considered for this role typically have an advanced degree and previous experience in a leadership or management role usually within the same field as the hiring agency. Depending on the size of the non-profit organization, the executive director may be responsible raising funds, implementing programs and overseeing the budget. This position also usually requires representing the agency at outside meetings and events.

Development Director

In order to fulfill the mission, the non-profit organization must bring in donations to cover operating expenses. A development director is responsible for implementing the organization's fundraising program, keeping accurate records of all funds generated and maintaining the donor database. This position typically reports to the executive director. The development director oversees all of the aspects of the fundraising, which may include planning and executing special events, creating and mailing direct-mail appeals, and talking to current and prospective donors about donating to the organization. This person may be required to have a college degree as well as some previous experience raising funds for a non-profit organization.

Chief Financial Officer

Non-profit careers in finance include overseeing the organization's budget and making sure it is in compliance with all rules and regulations that apply to non-profit management. The finance director or chief financial officer typically reports to the executive director as well as the board of directors and will oversee all of the finances associated with the agency. This position will typically supervise an accounting department and will manage all bank accounts, investments, assets and financing strategies. The qualifications usually include a degree in finance as well as experience in non-profit accounting practices. This person will also be responsible for providing financial direction and plans for the non-profit organization and making sure that all financial reporting is accurate and timely.

References

• Non Profit Job Description Samples
• Executive Director Job Description Sample
• Director of Development Job Description Sample
• Chief Financial Officer Job Description Sample
• Wages in the Non-Profit Sector