Executive Director – Iowa Right to Life
Position Overview
The Executive Director is the public and visible leader of the organization, responsible for advancing the mission to protect and advocate for human life. This role provides operational leadership, and external representation while ensuring organizational sustainability, integrity and measurable impact.
The Executive Director plays an integral role in shaping the direction, credibility and effectiveness of the organization. This position requires principled leadership, strong execution and the ability to navigate complex cultural, legal and public policy environments.
Mission & Strategic Leadership
- Lead and protect the organization’s mission, values and long-term vision.
- Develop and implement strategic plans that advance advocacy, education and public engagement.
- Monitor legislative, cultural, and policy developments impacting life-related issues and respond strategically.
Fundraising, Financial Oversight and Capacity Building
- Lead fundraising efforts, including major gifts, events, grants and donor engagement based on best practices and fundraising techniques utilizing assessments of IRTL donor database and IRTL metrics.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with donors, partners, legislators and stakeholders.
- Oversee budgeting and financial management to ensure transparency, compliance and sustainability.
Board Partnership & Governance
- Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to set priorities and maintain accountability.
- Provide regular reporting on organizational performance, financial health, and strategic progress.
- Support board engagemnt in fundraising, advocacy and outreach.
Operations & Team Leadership
- Oversee and collaborate with the Office Operations Manager to ensure and coordinate events, scheduling, correspondence to donors and constituents, and internal and external communications by way of website and social media.
- Foster a professional, mission-driven culture focused on excellence and results.
- Ensure efficient systems, policies and procedures are in place.
Public Engagement & Communications
- Serve as the primary spokesperson to media, policymakers, and community partners.
- Oversee messaging, branding, and outreach to broaden public awareness and support.
- Represent the organization in public forums with clarity, credibiity and professionalism.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated commitment to the pro-life mission and advocacy for human dignity.
- Proven leadership experience in nonprofit management, advocacy, or a related field.
- Strong fundraising and donor relationship experience.
- Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
- Strategic, decisive leader able to operate in high-profile and sensitive environments.
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 – 50 pounds as needed for event setup, including loading and unloading carts and shelves.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and walk long distances as required for job duties.
Submit application and cover letter through email: [email protected] or mail to: Iowa Right to Life, 1450 East 33rd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50317