Executive Director

About the Cleveland Rowing FoundationThe Cleveland Rowing Foundation (CRF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting rowing and other recreational activities at Rivergate Park through partnerships with affiliated rowing organizations and the broader community.CRF owns 4.5 acres on Cleveland’s riverfront, providing a home for more than 200 rowing shells and over 1,000 high school, collegiate, and adult rowers through its member organizations. CRF also hosts the Head of the Cuyahoga, one of the largest single-day regattas in the United States.Beyond supporting established rowing programs, CRF works to expand access to rowing and river recreation for individuals and communities who may face barriers to participation. The organization is also focused on strengthening its financial sustainability, expanding community partnerships, and developing the long-term potential of Rivergate Park.​Position SUMMARYThe Executive Director leads the business operations, financial sustainability, community relationships, and long-term growth of the Cleveland Rowing Foundation. Reporting to the Board of Directors, this hands-on leadership role works closely with the Rowing Director, Director of Maintenance, board committees, and community partners.The Executive Director is responsible for ensuring CRF operates effectively, raises the funds needed to advance its mission, delivers successful events and programs, and develops a long-term vision for Rivergate Park. The ideal candidate combines strong operational and financial management with relationship building, fundraising, and the ability to turn strategic opportunities into practical results.This role is well suited to a resourceful leader who enjoys balancing day-to-day responsibilities with longer-term organizational development and community impact.​Key Responsibilities Business & Financial ManagementOversee CRF’s day-to-day business, financial, and operational functions to ensure effective operations and long-term sustainability.Develop and manage the annual budget, monitor revenue and expenses, coordinate payroll, oversee vendor relationships, and work with CRF’s accounting firm on financial reporting.Work with the Rowing Director and Director of Maintenance to oversee facility operations, equipment maintenance, shared resources, and operational priorities.Lead staff and coordinate volunteers while maintaining effective systems for recordkeeping, waivers, compliance, and organizational administration.Work with affiliated organizations, staff, and board committees to resolve operational challenges, support safety, and improve organizational effectiveness.FundraisingLead fundraising and development efforts to sustain operations, expand programs, and support CRF’s long-term financial needs.Develop and execute fundraising plans in partnership with the Board, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, grants, and other revenue opportunities.Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and community partners; oversee grant applications, reporting, and donor stewardship.Identify opportunities to diversify revenue and support capital fundraising initiatives for future facility improvements and property development. Strategic Growth & Property DevelopmentPartner with the Board of Directors, Rowing Director, and community stakeholders to advance CRF’s long-term growth and develop the potential of Rivergate Park.Identify and evaluate opportunities to expand rowing, recreational programming, community access, and organizational revenue.Develop plans, budgets, partnerships, and implementation priorities for strategic initiatives and facility improvements.Help establish a long-term vision for Rivergate Park and support capital campaigns and other funding strategies to advance approved projects.Monitor progress against organizational priorities and recommend opportunities to strengthen CRF’s impact and financial sustainability. Events & Community EngagementLead major events and build community relationships that strengthen CRF’s visibility, broaden participation, and advance its mission.Plan and oversee the annual Head of the Cuyahoga (HOTC) regatta, including logistics, budgets, permits, vendors, participant communications, and event-day operations.Coordinate with the Board, Rowing Director, participating organizations, civic partners, and other stakeholders to deliver successful events and programs.Develop partnerships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations to expand access to rowing and river recreation.Oversee communications, outreach programs, and volunteer engagement, including support for initiatives such as the River Experience Summer Camp. QualificationsRequiredAt least five years of relevant leadership experience in nonprofit management, business operations, fundraising, events, facilities, recreation, or a related field.Experience managing operations, budgets, projects, vendors, and multiple stakeholders.Strong relationship-building, communication, and team leadership skills, including working with staff, volunteers, donors, or community partners.Proficiency with modern technology and digital systems, including maintaining organized digital records, streamlining operations through automated processes, and leveraging social media or digital tools for community engagement.Resourceful problem-solver who can balance strategic priorities with hands-on operational needs in a small organization.Availability to work on-site during peak operations and events, including evenings and weekends.Ability to perform essential facility and event duties, with reasonable accommodations as applicable.Completion of required SafeSport training and a satisfactory background check. PreferredA passion for sports, athletics, or community recreation, and a strong belief in the impact of CRF’s mission (rowing experience is not required, but a genuine appreciation for what we do is essential).Experience with fundraising, grants, corporate sponsorships, or capital campaigns.Experience working with nonprofit boards, managing major events or recreation programs, or overseeing facilities and capital projects.Familiarity with the Northeast Ohio nonprofit, civic, or philanthropic community.Familiarity with rowing, boating, or community-based athletics.A bachelor’s degree in business, nonprofit management, finance, sports management, or a related field is welcome but not required.