Executive Director (San Diego)

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Salary: $75,000 – $95,000 (commensurate with experience)

Start Date: ASAP

About Us

Founded in 1991 by parents seeking answers and hope for their visually impaired son, The Vision of Children Foundation (VOC) is a San Diego-based nonprofit with an international mission: to cure genetic vision disorders and improve the lives of children and families affected by them. We fund innovative scientific research and provide educational tools, community programs, and direct support to those living with vision challenges.

With a small, dedicated staff and a committed Board of Directors, VOC is driven by passion, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of a cure.

Position Summary

We are seeking a strategic, mission-driven Executive Director (ED) to lead VOC into its next phase of growth and impact. The ED will oversee fundraising, programs, finance, operations, and external relations, while working closely with the Founders to carry out the organization’s mission.

This role is ideal for a hands-on leader who brings nonprofit management experience, a talent for relationship-building, and a deep commitment to improving lives through science and service.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Organizational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including financial tracking, budgeting, check processing, and compliance.
• Supervise and support a small internal team, contractors, and volunteers.
• Maintain donor and contact databases; manage data entry, reporting, and acknowledgments.
• Schedule Board meetings, prepare materials, and maintain accurate records and minutes.
• Ensure proper maintenance of organizational documents, tax filings, audits, and permits.
• Collaborate with the Development Director to create and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan.
• Write, submit, and manage grants and follow up with required reporting.
• Cultivate and steward donors, sponsors, foundations, and business partnerships.
• Lead and support special events, annual appeals, and online campaigns.
• Ensure timely donation receipting and donor recognition.

Program Oversight

• Manage and grow VOC’s core programs:
• Scientific Research Grants – Serve as liaison to researchers, manage proposal review, contracts, and progress tracking.
• Project Vision Aid – Oversee device procurement, application review, delivery logistics, and follow-up with schools and families.
• Family Network – Foster community among affected families, share research updates, and encourage engagement through social media, newsletters, and events.
• Serve as the public face and spokesperson of VOC, representing the organization at community events, conferences, and in media.
• Lead marketing and communication strategies across digital, print, and PR platforms.
• Coordinate the production and distribution of newsletters, annual reports, and outreach materials.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, researchers, nonprofits, and advocacy networks.

Board Relations & Strategic Planning

• Partner with the Founders to define and execute strategic goals.
• Provide regular updates and insights on operations, fundraising, and programs.
• Support Board development and engagement efforts.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree or nonprofit certification a plus)
• 2–5 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, management, or development
• Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational, project management, and multitasking abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, and donor database software

Preferred

• Experience managing small teams or working in lean nonprofit environments
• Event planning and campaign experience
• Familiarity with scientific research, vision-related issues, or health-related causes is a plus

Why Join VOC?

• Lead a respected, mission-driven organization with a global impact
• Work alongside a small, passionate, and collaborative team
• Enjoy a role that blends strategic leadership with hands-on work
• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families around the world

To Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to:

Subject Line: Executive Director Application – (Your Name)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submissions are strongly encouraged.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Executive

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Business Development and Sales

• Industries

  Non-profit Organizations

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