Executive Director of Middle Tennessee Donor Forum

The Middle Tennessee Donors Forum (MTDF) is seeking a dynamic and relationship-centered Executive Director to facilitate the work of this collaborative membership network. This mid-level role is responsible for carrying out the vision and priorities of the MTDF Steering Committee, serving as the lead facilitator for member engagement, programming, and partnership development.

Reporting to and working closely with the MTDF Steering Committee, the Director helps ensure that MTDF continues to serve as a trusted, responsive, and relevant hub for philanthropic learning, coordination, and idea exchange. The Executive Director engages members with consistency and creativity, brings forward new opportunities for consideration, and supports the overall health of the network through thoughtful programming and responsive communication.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Design (in collaboration with the Steering Committee) and implement an annual calendar of programs in alignment with MTDF’s mission and member interests, including the identification of speakers and discussion topics.

  • Manage logistics for all virtual and in-person events, including venue coordination, registration, technology support, and post-event follow-up.

  • Serve as the primary liaison for members by maintaining strong communication, building relationships, and facilitating opportunities for connection and collaboration.

  • Collaborate with the Steering Committee to craft and implement a vision that transforms MTDF from a well-respected network to a driving force in philanthropic leadership.

  • Lead efforts related to member retention and recruitment, tracking renewals and proactively reaching out to new and lapsed members.

  • Draft and disseminate regular newsletters and program updates using Constant Contact, ensuring members are informed and engaged.

  • Organize and maintain MTDF’s shared resources, including archived program content and member-exclusive materials.

  • Support MTDF committees by coordinating meetings, advancing goals, and keeping work aligned with overall priorities.

  • Provide regular updates to the Steering Committee on engagement efforts, programming outcomes, and emerging opportunities for MTDF to consider.

  • Support sponsorship outreach and stewardship in collaboration with the Steering Committee.

  • Research similar industry organizations to ensure best practices and innovative programming opportunities are considered.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree

  • 5 or more years of experience in the nonprofit, philanthropy, or membership-based sectors.

  • Knowledge of Middle Tennessee’s philanthropic or nonprofit landscape

  • Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement, program planning, and event management.

  • Experience working with or reporting to a nonprofit board or volunteer committee.

  • Strong discernment and emotional intelligence abilities.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong organizational and project management abilities.

  • Proficiency with Constant Contact or similar email platforms, Zoom or other virtual event tools, and basic CRM or tracking systems.

  • Ability to work independently, while collaborating closely with volunteers and stakeholders.

Time Commitment and Compensation

This is a full-time position with flexibility built in. Some weeks will require in-person event coordination and meeting facilitation, while others allow for a flexible, remote-friendly schedule. Workspace is available at The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, with meeting space available as needed.

Salary: $80,000-$90,000

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% employer-paid for individual employees) 

  • Disability and life insurance, paid family leave (100% employer paid for individual employees) 

  • 403(b) retirement plan 

  • FSA/HSA options

  • 15 paid days of accrued PTO annually

  • 11 Paid Holidays

 

JOB OPPORTUNITY

To Apply:

The Middle Tennessee Donors Forum has retained Nonprofit Leadership LLC to lead this executive search. Interested candidates should submit a current résumé and a personalized cover letter outlining their perspective on the strengths of the philanthropic community in Middle Tennessee.

Please email application materials to Elle Benson at elle@nonprofit-leadership.com, using “Executive Director – Middle Tennessee Donors Forum” in the subject line.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of August 26, 2025.