Fahrenheit Advisors has been retained to lead the search for the new CEO of READ RVA (formerly The READ Center). This is an opportunity to lead a well-established nonprofit into its next phase of impact and growth. The position will report to a Board of Directors and will be based full-time in an office in Richmond VA.
About READ RVAREAD RVA is a Richmond VA-based nonprofit organization committed to changing lives through adult literacy. With a 40-year history of empowering adults to read write and thrive they provide classroom instruction one-on-one tutoring and community-based programs. Their work strengthens families supports workforce development and addresses inequity at its core: literacy.
They envision a community where all adults lead literate lives and with your leadership they are ready to grow deeper and wider across the Richmond region.
Position Summary
READ RVA seeks a strategic dynamic and mission-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organization into its next phase of growth. Reporting to the Board of Directors the CEO is responsible for advancing the mission increasing the number of adults they serve expanding their geographic reach and ensuring long-term organizational sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Vision & Organizational Leadership
- In partnership with the President of the Board of Directors develop and implement a bold multi-year strategic plan focused on expanding programs locations (such as the East End site) and partnerships for review and approval by the full Board of Directors
- Leverage experience to serve as a focal point between board and staff to help the organization set and meet achievable and sustainable goals in service of the mission. Serve as a guide and mentor to staff on goal achievement
- Provide inspirational leadership to staff board volunteers and stakeholders
- Foster a culture of innovation accountability inclusivity and continuous improvement
- Represent the organization publicly as a credible compelling voice for adult literacy
- Actively participate in day-to-day activity with energydirect action and support to staff in this hands-on role
Fundraising & Revenue Diversification
- Serve as the chief fundraiser and relationship-builder lead the development team and Board to diversify and grow revenue streams
- Cultivate relationships with individual donors foundations corporations and government entities
- Expand mission-aligned earned income (without impeding student access to services) and partnership opportunities
Team Leadership & People Development
- Lead and mentor a passionate and capable team; invest in performance development and retention of Staff
- Foster a collaborative supportive and values-driven work environment
- Ensure appropriate staffing and operational capacity to support strategic growth
Community Engagement & Partnerships
- Build and strengthen relationships with local partners educational institutions workforce and social service agencies and community leaders to build awareness about READ RVA and create a pipeline for student referrals
- Deepen READ RVAs presence and reputation across Richmonds diverse neighborhoods
Financial & Operational Management
- Oversee budgeting financial planning compliance and risk management in collaboration with the Board Treasurer and staff
- Ensure sound governance practices and strong operational systems
- Monitor and evaluate program impact making data-informed decisions to enhance outcomes
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Strategic Visionary with the ability to set a bold course and align teams and resources toward achieving that vision
- Compelling Communicator and Advocate who can meaningfully represent READs mission to diverse audiences
- People-Centered Leader who nurtures talent leads with empathy and builds high-performing teams
- Experienced Fundraiser and Relationship-Builder who has grown and diversified revenue across multiple channels
- Savvy Nonprofit Manager with a track record of success leading organizations or complex programs with a social impact misson
Required Experience:
Chief