Executive Director
About the Organization
The Athens-Clarke County Center for Racial Justice and Black Futures (CRJBF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to illuminating the rich and diverse histories of African Americans in Athens, Georgia, and surrounding communities. CRJBF serves as a community-rooted space for connection, truth-telling, and collective visioning—where residents can honor their past, confront systemic injustice, and build a liberated future. As the organization prepares for the development of its physical home on the Classic Center campus, it continues to expand its programming, partnerships, and community engagement to advance racial justice and Black futures across Athens-Clarke County. To learn more about CRJBF, click here: https://athenscenterforracialjustice.org/
Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief leader, strategist, and public representative of the CRJBF. This role requires a visionary leader committed to racial justice, historical truth, and community empowerment. The Executive Director will guide the strategic direction, oversee daily operations, cultivate partnerships, and ensure long-term organizational sustainability. In alignment with leadership roles at mission-driven organizations, the Executive Director will play a central role in securing philanthropic support—including grants, major gifts, and institutional partnerships—to strengthen the CRJBF’s capacity and expand its impact. This description is not intended to encompass all responsibilities of this position. Responsibilities may evolve or expand as needed.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
• Advance and create a long-term strategic plan that reflects the CRJBF’s mission to connect the community to its past and build a just future.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, board development, and organizational transparency.
• Uphold and amplify the CRJBF’s commitment to truth-telling, historical recovery, and racial justice.
• Serve as a leading voice on issues of equity, community memory, and Black futures in Athens-Clarke County and beyond.
• Establish a framework and provide strategies to community members, advocates, or organizations for the improvement of Athens.
Organizational & Financial Management
• Build, lead, and mentor a growing team, ensuring alignment with organizational values and community needs.
• Manage financial planning and compliance in partnership with the Board of Directors; specific details regarding the current operating budget will be available for review during the interview process.
• Strengthen internal systems that support effective program delivery, historical documentation, and community engagement.
• Support the planning and development of the CRJBF’s physical space on the Classic Center campus.
Resource Development & Fundraising
• Lead the CRJBF's fundraising strategy, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and relationship management with foundations and government agencies.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities related to historical preservation, community education, youth programming, and capital development.
• Prepare compelling grant proposals and reports that reflect the CRJBF's impact and strategic priorities.
• Ensure ethical stewardship and transparent management of all funds in accordance with organizational policies and best practices.
Community Engagement & Advocacy
• Build and sustain authentic relationships with community members, grassroots organizations, local government, and educational institutions.
• Represent CRJBF in public forums, media engagements, and collaborative initiatives.
• Support community-led efforts such as historical documentation and cultural programming—including projects like Linnentown: The Musical.
• Support advocacy efforts related to recognition and redress, building on the work of the Linnentown Resolution and the Justice and Memory Project.
Qualifications
• Demonstrated commitment to racial justice, community empowerment, and historical truth-telling initiatives.
• Proven leadership experience of at least 2-3 years in a nonprofit, advocacy, cultural, or community-based organization.
• Strong background in fundraising, grant writing, and resource development.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public-speaking skills.
• Experience managing budgets, staff, and organizational systems.
• Ability to navigate complex social and political environments with diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Lived experience and deep community connection are highly valued.
Educational preferences
• Master's level education in a relevant field with knowledge and experience in cultural institutions.
Compensation & Benefits
• Status : Full-time, exempt position.
• Salary : Base pay of $60,000 with potential for higher compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Incentives : Performance-based incentives related to organizational growth and successful resource development may be available, subject to Board approval and organizational policy.
• Benefits : Package including health coverage, paid leave, and professional development support.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
The CRJBF is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from historically marginalized communities. CRJBF values lived experience and community knowledge alongside formal professional experience.
How to Apply
Candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to Rachel Bentley at rbentley@athenscenterforracialjustice.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until April 30, 2026.
Museums
Business Development and Sales
Full-time