Valor RVA- Executive Director

Sandbox•Richmond, VA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Valor RVA exists to stand beside the first responders who stand up for the Greater Richmond community every single day. Through financial assistance, recognition of extraordinary courage, and meaningful community engagement, Valor RVA supports the people behind the badge and the families who support them. At its core, Valor RVA is built on a deep belief that service matters and that the individuals who protect our communities deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated. The organization brings together public safety professionals, civic leaders, businesses, and community members to strengthen the connection between those who serve and the region they call home. From moments of crisis to moments of recognition, Valor RVA plays a meaningful role in honoring sacrifice, uplifting public servants, and building a stronger Richmond community through trust, partnership, and shared purpose. Valor RVA is seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven leader to serve as its Executive Director. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, this individual will lead the organization’s strategy, fundraising efforts, financial stewardship, and regional partnerships while helping shape the next chapter of the organization’s impact across Greater Richmond. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity at the intersection of public safety, philanthropy, and community engagement. You will serve as the face of the organization, building authentic relationships across a broad network of stakeholders while driving meaningful progress against the organization’s mission and goals. Success in this role means deepening trust across the first responder ecosystem, expanding and diversifying funding opportunities, and delivering programs and events that leave a lasting impact on the community, most notably the annual Valor Awards. This is an opportunity for a leader who can inspire people around a shared mission, turn vision into action, and bring both heart and execution to the work.

Requirements

Are an experienced leader
Have demonstrated success in fundraising, sponsorship development, or business development
Have experience managing budgets and financial oversight
Have operated in leadership roles with ownership over outcomes, not just execution
Know how to operate and get things done
Translate strategy into execution and measurable results
Balance big-picture thinking with day-to-day operational follow-through
Are comfortable leading in a high-visibility, relationship-driven role
Navigate people and partnerships with intention
Build strong, trust-based relationships across diverse stakeholders
Communicate effectively with executive leaders, board members, and community partners
Represent organizations with professionalism and credibility
Mission-Driven + Community-Centered: You are deeply motivated by supporting first responders and strengthening community connections, and you bring that purpose into your work every day.
Relationship-Oriented + Influential: You build trust quickly, maintain strong partnerships, and know how to engage stakeholders across sectors.
Autonomous + Self-Directed: You are comfortable operating independently within a lean organization, take initiative without needing heavy oversight, and know how to effectively move work forward as a team of one.
Strategic + Execution-Focused: You can set direction while also rolling up your sleeves to ensure the work gets done.
Professional + Adaptable: You represent the organization with credibility while navigating a dynamic, event-driven environment.

Nice To Haves

Have experience working with public safety, government, or regional stakeholders
Bring experience leading or supporting high-profile events
Have existing relationships within the Greater Richmond community

Responsibilities

Lead and implement strategic initiatives aligned with the organization’s strategic plan, translating vision into clear priorities, execution, and measurable progress.
Ensuring alignment between board direction and day-to-day execution
Growing and diversifying revenue through corporate sponsorships, individual giving, and partnerships
Building and maintaining relationships with donors, sponsors, and community supporters
Identifying new opportunities to expand funding and organizational reach
Serving as the primary ambassador to Chiefs, first responder agencies, and regional public safety leaders
Strengthening connections across the Greater Richmond first responder network
Building trust across public and private sector stakeholders
Planning and executing of the annual Valor Awards event
Increasing public visibility and deepening community engagement by launching and implementing events and programs that support the organization’s strategic goals.
Representing Valor RVA at regional and community events throughout the year, including both daytime and evening engagements.
Managing the organizational budget and ensuring strong financial stewardship
Overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring organizational effectiveness
Partnering with the Board to ensure transparency and accountability
Working closely with the Board of Directors to support organizational priorities
Organizing and leading quarterly board meetings
Providing regular updates on performance, financials, and strategic progress