Chief Executive Officer - United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara

An exciting opportunity to lead our United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County (UBGC) is open, and we are looking for our next Chief Executive Officer to make a positive impact on kids’ lives. We’re seeking candidates who will lead the overall planning and operation of the organization – while providing leadership, direction, and support to the Board of Directors. You will be responsible for bringing the organization’s mission to life, as you work to ensure that area kids and teens achieve great futures by delivering a safe and fun space, creating an engaging Club experience, and managing caring professionals to guide them along the way.

As a powerful testament, an astounding 54% of national Club alumni have expressed that the Club has had a life-altering impact on them. This highlights the incredible opportunity that awaits you and your team to make a profound and transformative difference in the lives of our youth, which will undoubtedly bring about profound and lasting changes.

The organization is focused on expanding UBGC’s positive impact throughout Santa Barbara County. This can be achieved by increasing the number of youths served, enhancing the effectiveness of existing programs, or a strategic combination of both. The new CEO will play a critical role in setting this vision, engaging community support, and mobilizing the resources needed to drive meaningful, measurable impact.

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the development and execution of the organization’s long-term vision and strategic plan in partnership with the Board.
• Serve as the public face of UBGC in Santa Barbara County, representing the organization to community leaders, media, donors, and policymakers.
• Maintain and grow UBGC’s reputation as a premier youth development organization in the region.

Fundraising & Financial Stewardship

• Develop and execute a diversified fundraising strategy to support an annual operating budget in the $5M–$10M range.
• Cultivate and solicit major donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, and community partners.
• Ensure sound financial management, oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and ensure compliance with all nonprofit regulations.

Board Engagement & Governance

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to ensure strong governance and alignment on mission and goals.
• Provide timely, accurate reports on the organization’s financial and programmatic performance.
• Support board recruitment, development, and engagement.
• Ensure active participation and support effective governance.
• Provide board committees with information and support to fulfill objectives.

Program Oversight & Community Impact

• Ensure high-quality programs that align with the needs of youth in Santa Barbara County.
• Oversee measurement and evaluation efforts to track impact and outcomes.
• Foster an inclusive, equitable, and safe environment for youth and staff.

Staff Leadership & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop a committed leadership team and broader staff of ~150 employees.
• Promote a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement, accountability, and youth-first values.
• Support and uphold the organization’s mission, values, and guiding principles.
• Implement and oversee programs and activities aligned with organizational objectives.
• Establish and enforce policies and procedures to maintain operational excellence.

• At least five years experience in a CEO, Executive Director, or senior leadership role.
• Proven success in resource development with experience securing six- and seven-figure gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Sales or business development experience in lieu of traditional fundraising is ideal.
• Deep commitment to youth development, education, and closing opportunity gaps.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large teams and multiple sites across a regional footprint.
• Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing complex budgets.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with a board of directors and leading governance processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with the Santa Barbara County community and its philanthropic landscape.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree acceptable in relevant coursework.
• Master’s degree in nonprofit management, education, public administration, or related field is a plus.

Base Salary: $250,000-$300,000 annually, commensurate with education and experience.  Must reside within Santa Barbara County or Southern California and relocation can be discussed on a per-candidate basis.  A competitive benefits package is also offered.