Blue Star Families
Executive Director, Nashville Chapter
Blue Star Families, Nashville, Tennessee, United States, 37247
Executive Director, Nashville Chapter
Job Title:
Executive Director, Nashville Chapter
Department:
Chapter Impact
Location:
Nashville, TN
Reports to:
Vice President, Chapter Impact & Outposts
Direct Reports:
Yes
Classification:
Exempt
Anticipated Pay:
$106,000 - $146,000
Blue Star Families
is the largest nonprofit dedicated to making military life better for families. Each year, we support over 1.5 million military‑connected family members through a national network of 300,000+ members and local chapters across the country. Our mission is simple and bold: We make military life awesome for families. We listen, share, partner, and act to deliver evidence‑based, data‑driven solutions that work for real people. We’re a lifestyle organization, a friend and neighbor, and a trusted partner. Our approach is collaborative, human‑centered, and designed with the whole family in mind.
Who We’re Looking For
Bold thinkers, fast movers, and smart collaborators.
People who want to build, lead, and drive measurable change.
Someone who cares deeply about making an impact that matters.
What You’ll Do Here
Solve complex challenges with data, heart, and humility.
Build cross‑sector partnerships that get things done.
Help military families feel at home wherever they live.
General Description The Executive Director (ED) is the senior‑most leader of the Chapter, responsible for local strategy, sustainable revenue, community impact, and team performance. The ED leads a metropolitan region (Nashville) and supports satellite program delivery in adjacent locations (Clarksville, TN). The role requires a high‑capacity, externally focused executive who excels at strategic partnerships, six‑figure fundraising, board leadership, and cross‑functional coordination. It is an executive‑level role that demands strategic vision, high visibility, and the ability to navigate a complex ecosystem.
As a fully remote organization, the ED will travel overnight several times per year for staff off‑sites, planning retreats, and company‑wide events.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Revenue Leadership
Develop and execute a Chapter Sustainability Plan tied to annual revenue and growth.
Secure major gifts from corporations, philanthropies, foundations, and high‑net‑worth individuals.
Partner with the Development Team and National team on joint fundraising strategy.
Lead stewardship and storytelling efforts that reinforce BSF’s virtuous cycle.
Expand diversified revenue streams: corporate sponsorships, foundations, workplace giving, government opportunities, and community campaigns.
Own annual fundraising goals; oversee stewardship that increases renewal rates and multi‑year commitments.
Executive Leadership & Chapter Operations
Lead the Chapter’s full operational portfolio, including staff, volunteers, programs, budget, and community partnerships.
Serve as the senior BSF representative in the metropolitan region—driving professionalism, visibility, and community trust.
Develop and manage the Program Director/Manager and volunteer corps; ensure satellite program delivery (Clarksville) is aligned, supported, and resourced.
Manage national program execution (Welcome Week, MFLS, NTS/Nourish the Service, etc.).
Implement BSF’s data‑driven evaluation model in partnership with National Programs & Applied Research teams.
Ensure compliance with BSF operational policies, fiscal management, KPIs, and risk mitigation practices.
Advisory Board & Stakeholder Engagement
Recruit, develop, and steward a high‑performing, strategic local Advisory Board.
Cultivate relationships with VIPs, elected officials, military installation leaders, philanthropic champions, and corporate executives.
Leverage senior relationships to open doors and elevate the Chapter’s regional presence.
Represent BSF at community events, convenings, coalitions, and multi‑sector partnership tables.
Community Building & Cross‑Sector Partnerships
Become a recognized thought leader in the local community.
Build a robust ecosystem of civic, military, corporate, nonprofit, and philanthropic partners.
Serve as the Chapter’s chief ambassador for military‑connected families.
Collaborate with the Program Director/Manager to connect families with resources and community supports.
Identify strategic opportunities for regional expansion and innovative programming.
Communications, Storytelling & Brand Stewardship
Deepen BSF’s local presence through storytelling, brand‑consistent communications, and partnership visibility.
Collaborate with Marketing/Comms to amplify Chapter impact.
Serve as a strong, articulate voice for military families in public forums.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Experience, Skills, Background
Bachelor’s degree or 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in community development, nonprofit leadership, or strategic partnerships.
5+ years of management experience, including direct staff leadership.
Proven ability to secure significant philanthropic gifts (six‑figure required).
Demonstrated success in growing an organization, business unit, or major initiative.
Exceptional executive communication skills—written, verbal, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement.
Experience managing an advisory board or similar governance structure.
Strong organizational management capability: budgeting, planning, KPI accountability, and team development.
Ability to work effectively across diverse groups, cultures, and sectors.
Mission‑driven mindset with integrity, humility, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of urgency.
Willingness to work nights/weekends for essential community events;
Ability to lift and carry supplies and equipment up to 30 lbs.
Desired Experience, Skills, Background
Experience using CRM systems; Salesforce a plus.
Understanding of military culture and the lived experience of military families.
Knowledge of the Blue Star Families ecosystem and/or BSF programs.
More About Blue Star Families Blue Star Families empowers military and Veteran families to thrive by connecting them with their civilian neighbors. We believe we’re all stronger when we take care of one another. Our research raises national awareness of the unique challenges of military family life. With the help of communities across the country, we overcome isolation and alienation. Our innovative programs address economic insecurity, spouse career development, family strength, and caregiver support. Blue Star Families is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
EEO Policy Blue Star Families is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Benefits
403(b) with matching
Flexible Spending Account
Life Insurance
Short‑Term Disability
Communications Allowance
Competitive salaries
Workplace flexibility
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave for Active‑Duty Military Spouses
On‑the‑job professional development training
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Executive Director, Nashville Chapter
Department:
Chapter Impact
Location:
Nashville, TN
Reports to:
Vice President, Chapter Impact & Outposts
Direct Reports:
Yes
Classification:
Exempt
Anticipated Pay:
$106,000 - $146,000
Blue Star Families
is the largest nonprofit dedicated to making military life better for families. Each year, we support over 1.5 million military‑connected family members through a national network of 300,000+ members and local chapters across the country. Our mission is simple and bold: We make military life awesome for families. We listen, share, partner, and act to deliver evidence‑based, data‑driven solutions that work for real people. We’re a lifestyle organization, a friend and neighbor, and a trusted partner. Our approach is collaborative, human‑centered, and designed with the whole family in mind.
Who We’re Looking For
Bold thinkers, fast movers, and smart collaborators.
People who want to build, lead, and drive measurable change.
Someone who cares deeply about making an impact that matters.
What You’ll Do Here
Solve complex challenges with data, heart, and humility.
Build cross‑sector partnerships that get things done.
Help military families feel at home wherever they live.
General Description The Executive Director (ED) is the senior‑most leader of the Chapter, responsible for local strategy, sustainable revenue, community impact, and team performance. The ED leads a metropolitan region (Nashville) and supports satellite program delivery in adjacent locations (Clarksville, TN). The role requires a high‑capacity, externally focused executive who excels at strategic partnerships, six‑figure fundraising, board leadership, and cross‑functional coordination. It is an executive‑level role that demands strategic vision, high visibility, and the ability to navigate a complex ecosystem.
As a fully remote organization, the ED will travel overnight several times per year for staff off‑sites, planning retreats, and company‑wide events.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Revenue Leadership
Develop and execute a Chapter Sustainability Plan tied to annual revenue and growth.
Secure major gifts from corporations, philanthropies, foundations, and high‑net‑worth individuals.
Partner with the Development Team and National team on joint fundraising strategy.
Lead stewardship and storytelling efforts that reinforce BSF’s virtuous cycle.
Expand diversified revenue streams: corporate sponsorships, foundations, workplace giving, government opportunities, and community campaigns.
Own annual fundraising goals; oversee stewardship that increases renewal rates and multi‑year commitments.
Executive Leadership & Chapter Operations
Lead the Chapter’s full operational portfolio, including staff, volunteers, programs, budget, and community partnerships.
Serve as the senior BSF representative in the metropolitan region—driving professionalism, visibility, and community trust.
Develop and manage the Program Director/Manager and volunteer corps; ensure satellite program delivery (Clarksville) is aligned, supported, and resourced.
Manage national program execution (Welcome Week, MFLS, NTS/Nourish the Service, etc.).
Implement BSF’s data‑driven evaluation model in partnership with National Programs & Applied Research teams.
Ensure compliance with BSF operational policies, fiscal management, KPIs, and risk mitigation practices.
Advisory Board & Stakeholder Engagement
Recruit, develop, and steward a high‑performing, strategic local Advisory Board.
Cultivate relationships with VIPs, elected officials, military installation leaders, philanthropic champions, and corporate executives.
Leverage senior relationships to open doors and elevate the Chapter’s regional presence.
Represent BSF at community events, convenings, coalitions, and multi‑sector partnership tables.
Community Building & Cross‑Sector Partnerships
Become a recognized thought leader in the local community.
Build a robust ecosystem of civic, military, corporate, nonprofit, and philanthropic partners.
Serve as the Chapter’s chief ambassador for military‑connected families.
Collaborate with the Program Director/Manager to connect families with resources and community supports.
Identify strategic opportunities for regional expansion and innovative programming.
Communications, Storytelling & Brand Stewardship
Deepen BSF’s local presence through storytelling, brand‑consistent communications, and partnership visibility.
Collaborate with Marketing/Comms to amplify Chapter impact.
Serve as a strong, articulate voice for military families in public forums.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Experience, Skills, Background
Bachelor’s degree or 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in community development, nonprofit leadership, or strategic partnerships.
5+ years of management experience, including direct staff leadership.
Proven ability to secure significant philanthropic gifts (six‑figure required).
Demonstrated success in growing an organization, business unit, or major initiative.
Exceptional executive communication skills—written, verbal, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement.
Experience managing an advisory board or similar governance structure.
Strong organizational management capability: budgeting, planning, KPI accountability, and team development.
Ability to work effectively across diverse groups, cultures, and sectors.
Mission‑driven mindset with integrity, humility, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of urgency.
Willingness to work nights/weekends for essential community events;
Ability to lift and carry supplies and equipment up to 30 lbs.
Desired Experience, Skills, Background
Experience using CRM systems; Salesforce a plus.
Understanding of military culture and the lived experience of military families.
Knowledge of the Blue Star Families ecosystem and/or BSF programs.
More About Blue Star Families Blue Star Families empowers military and Veteran families to thrive by connecting them with their civilian neighbors. We believe we’re all stronger when we take care of one another. Our research raises national awareness of the unique challenges of military family life. With the help of communities across the country, we overcome isolation and alienation. Our innovative programs address economic insecurity, spouse career development, family strength, and caregiver support. Blue Star Families is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
EEO Policy Blue Star Families is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Benefits
403(b) with matching
Flexible Spending Account
Life Insurance
Short‑Term Disability
Communications Allowance
Competitive salaries
Workplace flexibility
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Leave for Active‑Duty Military Spouses
On‑the‑job professional development training
#J-18808-Ljbffr