Executive Director

Decision Associates•Erie, PA

About The Position

For more than five decades, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Center (MKL Center) has stood as a cornerstone of hope, service, and community empowerment in Erie, Pennsylvania. Operated by Bayfront NATO, Inc., the MLK Center is a dynamic, mission-driven nonprofit that improves the quality of life for Erie's most vulnerable residents — delivering a continuum of care that reaches from infancy to senior living. The Center's programs span early childhood education, youth development, affordable senior housing, food security, health and family support services, and vibrant cultural initiatives including dance lessons through the Erie Dance Theater. The MLK Center is more than a service provider — it is the heartbeat of its community, a place where neighbors become family and potential becomes reality. On behalf of our client, the MLK Center's Board of Directors, located in Erie, PA, Decision Associates is conducting a national search for their next Executive Director. This visionary, community-centered leader will guide the organization into its next chapter. This is a rare and meaningful opportunity to lead one of Erie's most respected institutions at a pivotal moment — one rich with possibility for growth, innovation, and deepened community impact. Reporting directly to the Board President, the Executive Director will serve as the chief executive officer of the MLK Center, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and community representation for the organization and all of its programs. The Executive Director will be the face and voice of the MLK Center — a relationship-builder, a bold fundraiser, and an inspiring presence in the community. This leader will champion the mission, steward the organization's financial health, energize its staff and board, and chart a forward-thinking course that honors the MLK Center's legacy while embracing its future.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree or higher preferred (liberal arts, education, business management, or related field)
Minimum 10 years of progressive mid- and senior-level organizational management experience, preferably in the nonprofit sector
Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant writing, and securing contributed revenue from diverse funding sources
Proven ability in fiscal management, including budgeting, financial reporting, and stewardship of organizational resources
Experience in program development, strategic planning, and community partnership building
Strong public speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication skills
Proficiency in standard business software (Excel, budgeting tools, Microsoft Office suite)
A track record of leading teams with integrity, enthusiasm, and a results-oriented mindset
Deep commitment to the communities served — youth, families, seniors, and underserved populations

Responsibilities

Implement and monitor long-term strategic plans in partnership with the Board; oversee all day-to-day operations to ensure the highest quality experience for participants, staff, and community members.
Lead the organization's development efforts, cultivating and securing funding from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government sources; identify grants and coordinate with city, county, and regional agencies.
Serve as the primary community ambassador; cultivate strategic partnerships with neighborhood organizations, government, and multicultural groups to maximize the Center's reach and impact.
Partner with the Board and staff to design, implement, and evaluate exceptional programming that meets community needs — from early childhood education and youth services to neighborhood cultural enrichment.
Develop and oversee the annual budget; maintain rigorous financial controls; present timely, accurate financial reporting to the Board.
Recruit, mentor, and inspire a dedicated team; foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and mission-driven service.
Partner closely with the Board of Directors to ensure strong governance, effective communication, and strategic alignment; support Board development and committee initiatives.