Executive Director - Catholic Foundation

Job Description

About the Catholic Foundation
The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg strengthens the work of Christ by promoting Catholic philanthropy and stewarding charitable resources that sustain parishes, schools, and ministries across the five-county Diocese.

Through endowments, donor-advised funds, and planned gifts, the Foundation ensures that the Church's mission of service and evangelization remains vibrant for generations to come. Guided by the diocesan vision of "Courageously Living the Gospel", the Foundation upholds transparency, accountability, and faith-centered stewardship in all its work.

Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Catholic Foundation, leading all aspects of strategic direction, asset management, donor relations, and organizational growth.

Reporting to the Board of Trustees and working in partnership with the Bishop of Saint Petersburg and diocesan leadership, the Executive Director provides visionary leadership that inspires generosity, advances Catholic stewardship, and ensures the long-term financial sustainability of the Church's ministries.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance
• Implement the Foundation's strategic plan and align initiatives with diocesan mission priorities.
• Provide transparent, mission-driven leadership that empowers staff, Board members, and partners.
• Strengthen governance practices and Board engagement through orientation, accountability, and recruitment of new trustees.
• Represent the Foundation at diocesan and community events to expand awareness and support.

Organizational Management
• Lead and develop a professional team committed to collaboration, service, and accountability.
• Prepare and manage the annual budget; oversee financial reporting, audits, and compliance.
• Ensure effective internal systems, records management, and risk mitigation.
• Coordinate with diocesan departments to maintain alignment and efficiency in financial and administrative functions.

Philanthropy & Donor Engagement
• Serve as the Foundation's primary ambassador and spokesperson, promoting its mission across the Diocese.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with pastors, parish leaders, and benefactors.
• Collaborate with the diocesan Planned Giving Officer to cultivate major and planned gifts, endowments, and bequests.
• Oversee donor recognition, stewardship communications, and marketing strategies, including website, digital, and print content.

Asset Stewardship & Financial Oversight
• Oversee management of all Foundation assets in accordance with Catholic values and prudent investment principles.
• Partner with the Finance and Investment Committees and external advisors to ensure transparency, risk management, and portfolio performance.
• Produce timely financial and impact reports for the Board, donors, and diocesan entities.
• Support semi-annual reinvestment and grant-distribution processes.

Gift Administration
• Ensure timely acceptance and administration of endowed and restricted gifts, charitable trusts, and bequests.
• Maintain compliance with donor intent, Church policies, and legal standards.
• Collaborate with legal and financial advisors to safeguard integrity and transparency in all gift management activities.

Qualifications
• Active, practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church.
• Proven executive or senior leadership experience in nonprofit, foundation, or faith-based philanthropy.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor cultivation, and major gift development.
• Strong financial and investment acumen, with experience in fiduciary oversight.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with clergy, donors, and community partners.
• Master's degree in Church Management or related field from a Catholic university is preferred but negotiable based on experience.

Must pass a Level II FBI Background Screening and complete Safe Environment training.

About the Employer

Courageously Living the Gospel.

We, the Catholic Diocese of St Petersburg, are a joyful community of disciples proclaiming the Good News and inviting all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.

The Diocese of St. Petersburg includes all people in the counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus. While many people identify as Catholic, it is also our "mission territory."