Chief Executive Officer

POSITION SUMMARY West Business Development Center (West Center) is seeking a dynamic CEO to guide the organization into a new era of impactful leadership. This role offers a unique opportunity to champion rural economic development, foster investment in underserved areas, and drive small business growth through innovative technical assistance and collaborative relationships in rural Northern California. The CEO will be a highly visible leader and prominent advocate, building and nurturing partnerships across local, regional, state, and national levels to elevate the organization’s profile and extend its influence in driving sustainable economic growth. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will oversee the strategic and operational aspects of West Center, supervising direct reports and leading a dedicated team. The ideal candidate will embody West Center’s core values of inclusiveness, optimism, respect, collaboration, and integrity. They will possess a collaborative and strategic mindset, guiding the organization with a balance of visionary leadership and hands-on operational management. This role requires a strong commitment to advancing economic equity, empowering diverse business communities, and positioning West Center as a leader in rural, climate-forward economic development. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Leadership & Strategic Vision Provide innovative and inspired leadership reflective of West Center’s mission, vision and core values. Implement the organization’s recently developed strategic plan to achieve established goals and objectives. Recruit, support, and challenge a highly skilled team, delegating responsibilities appropriately; foster open communication; and promote a collaborative and transparent culture where staff are engaged, productive, and thriving. Collaborate closely with the board of directors to set strategic goals and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission. Assist in the growth of the board to include regional and inclusive representation. Funding & Communications Cultivate relationships with private foundations, corporate donors, individuals, and public grantors. Proactively seek opportunities to enhance the organization’s financial position and diversify funding streams. Lead donor fundraising initiatives, including annual appeals, individual giving and major gifts. Partner in the research, identification and development of government, corporate and foundation grants. Enhance organization's visibility through effective communications and relationship-building. Community & Policy Engagement Innovate and champion ways to support small business growth and economic development in the region. Represent the organization at local, regional, state and national levels. Build and maintain strategic public/private partnerships and alliances through diverse stakeholder engagement. Monitor legislation impacting California and the small business and economic development sectors. Fiscal Oversight Develop and manage the annual organizational budget. Ensure fiscal responsibility and that robust financial policies and guidelines are in place. Allocate resources effectively to meet both current and future needs and to achieve excellent, impactful organizational outcomes. Provide the board with regular updates on the financial status of the organization. SKILLS & EXPERIENCE Executive leadership experience, preferably in an economic development agency or nonprofit setting. Understanding of the changing dynamics of the business and economic development environments and opportunities in the region. Knowledge of, and experience working in, rural communities preferred. Proven success in driving organizational growth and implementing strategic, innovative, data-driven programs and initiatives. Strong decision-making, negotiating and problem-solving skills. Experience working with and reporting to a board at a strategic level. Proven ability to manage complexity within organizations and engage with diverse stakeholders. Demonstrated record of building and maintaining public/private partnerships. Strong computer skills to navigate a primarily virtual, cloud-based work environment. Demonstrated success in raising funds using diverse funding strategies. Strong experience with grant writing and management. Sound financial knowledge, including fund accounting. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Management expertise in building, leading, developing and coaching high performance staff. Valid driver’s license and safe driving record. POSITION REQUIREMENTS Travel: Must be able to travel as necessary for the role. This will include local, regional, state and national travel as required. Prolonged Computer Use: The position involves sitting at a computer for extended periods of time to complete essential job functions. Compensation $110-125k EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT West Business Development Center is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We adhere to the principles of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and California labor laws, striving to provide a fair and inclusive workplace.

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