Chief Executive Officer

About the role

The Sunnyside Foundation is seeking its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organization into its next chapter of impact. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a beloved, mission-driven organization with deep community roots, a growing portfolio of programs and partnerships, a new strategic plan, and real momentum continuing to expand our footprint in the community.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of a new multi-year, community-centered strategic plan in partnership with the Board, staff, and community stakeholders

• Provide visionary, values-aligned leadership that advances Sunnyside Foundation's mission across education, emergency relief, and community investment priority funding areas

• Serve as the Foundation's primary spokesperson, engaging public, civic, and donor partners on behalf of its mission and the people it serves

• Continue to grow a culture of learning, accountability, and belonging within the organization

• Lead and grow the Foundation's community-centered fundraising strategy, including Gives Week, individual donor cultivation, corporate partnerships, and grants

• Steward and grow existing donor relationships; cultivate new donors in alignment with the Foundation's values and community-first approach

• Create fundraising events that are accessible, community-celebrating, and fun, in the spirit of Gives Week

• Oversee and continue expanding the $1 million scholarship endowment and other legacy giving opportunities

• Oversee the full organizational P&L; ensure budget is met or exceeded annually

• Manage expenses within budget; work directly with CPAs on annual reviews and accounting needs

• Report monthly financial progress to the Board of Directors

• Ensure long-term fiscal sustainability through diversified revenue streams and responsible stewardship of the endowment

• Build and maintain deep relationships with SUSD leadership, community-based organizations, policymakers, philanthropic partners, civic leaders and stakeholders

• Grow and deepen strategic partnerships, including FUGA, Regeneración, Gabe Gallegos Memorial Foundation, the University of Arizona Southside Engagements, and others

• Seek and cultivate media, marketing, and co-sponsorship opportunities that amplify the Foundation's presence and reach in partnership with SF's Communications Manager

• Work closely with SUSD leadership to develop collaborative programs and funds for teachers, students, and families

• Directly supervise the Director of Operations and Communications & Outreach Manager

• Foster a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging; maintain high staff morale and retention

• Set clear organizational goals and support staff in achieving them; conduct meaningful annual performance conversations

• Partner closely with the Board of Directors to advance the strategic vision; provide monthly updates on progress toward objectives and budget

• Support board recruitment and cultivation; ensure the board has the information and engagement needed to govern effectively

• Respond to board inquiries with transparency and timeliness

• Ensure compliance and risk management

Requirements

The successful candidate will be a dynamic, strategic, collaborative leader, committed to the vision and mission of Sunnyside Foundation, with demonstrated leadership and fundraising experience in the non-profit sector. The following will generally define the ideal candidate:

• Community-Focused: the ability to lead the organization from behind and from within the community

• Experience working in coalitions, grassroots organizations, committees, and other collaborative settings

• Authentic ties to Tucson’s southside, those who have lived here, served here, or have family in our geographic serving area

• Creative Problem Solver: the ability to simultaneously think big, lead with urgency and aspirations, and understand reality and the bold moves needed to strengthen pathways that bring funding into our community

• Demonstrated racial equity and inclusion competencies: ability to manage a growing team, stakeholders, and partners with a racial equity and inclusive lens

• Fundraising: Proven fundraising ability with corporate, foundation, and individual donors coupled with a skill set to think long-term sustainability. Experience writing grants and/or overseeing grant writing staff or consultants

• Authentic Communicator: A skilled listener and storyteller who communicates with clarity, warmth, and conviction to diverse internal and external audiences including board and staff members, business, policymakers, philanthropic partners, and social sector leaders