United Way of Greater Knoxville - Chief Executive Officer
Company: ThinkingAhead
Location: Knoxville
Posted on: June 1, 2025
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Job Description:
United Way of Greater Knoxville - Chief Executive Officer
About the United Way of Greater Knoxville
For more than a century, United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) has
stood as a pillar of hope and innovation in East Tennessee. Today,
we are a catalyst for systems-level change-convening stakeholders
across sectors, championing community-driven solutions, and
investing in the most promising strategies to improve lives and
strengthen neighborhoods. Every year, UWGK mobilizes thousands of
donors, volunteers, and partners in service of a bold vision: a
community where every person can thrive.
We are rooted in a belief that real change only happens when people
come together. That's why UWGK serves as both strategist and
steward-connecting community needs with the resources, insights,
and partnerships to address them. From increasing access to
affordable childcare and nutritious food to fostering financial
stability and educational opportunity, we drive results that
matter.
In 2024 alone, UWGK mobilized $8.5 million in support from over
4,500 individual and workplace donors and nearly 220 corporate
partners to serve 655,482 individuals and families across the
region. Through flagship initiatives like the East Tennessee
Collaborative and Community Schools, we're not just addressing
symptoms-we're tackling root causes of inequity with long-term
strategies grounded in dignity, equity, and empowerment.
Our approach is bold and evolving. We're a lab for social
innovation-piloting and scaling high-impact programs, reimagining
nonprofit partnerships, and ensuring local organizations have the
tools and trust they need to succeed. This includes initiatives
like micro-centers for childcare access, afterschool tutoring
networks, and unrestricted funding to help nonprofits strengthen
their infrastructure and expand their reach.
Above all, United Way of Greater Knoxville is about possibility.
Whether helping a parent navigate their journey to financial
independence, partnering with schools to close achievement gaps, or
building healthier food systems with community voices at the
center, UWGK exists to ensure that all of Knoxville's
residents-regardless of their background or circumstance-have the
opportunity to build a better future.
The Opportunity
This is a defining moment for both the United Way of Greater
Knoxville and the region it serves. The next Chief Executive
Officer will step into a mission-driven organization with a bold
vision, a dynamic team, and strong momentum-ready to deepen its
impact, expand its reach, and reimagine what is possible for the
people of Knox County.
United Way of Greater Knoxville has earned a reputation as an
innovator and trusted convener. The organization's recent evolution
reflects a deep commitment to equity, collaboration, and
systems-level change. From redesigning how services are delivered
in schools to championing new models of economic mobility, UWGK is
doing more than responding to needs-it is proactively shaping the
future of the community.
The CEO will lead this charge, amplifying the voice and visibility
of UWGK while steering its strategic and financial direction. They
will be supported by a dedicated and capable team, a deeply engaged
Board of Directors, and an extensive network of philanthropic,
nonprofit, government, and corporate partners. For a
mission-oriented leader, this is a rare chance to build something
transformational-while surrounded by people who are ready and eager
to partner in the work.
Knoxville itself offers a welcoming, vibrant environment for
professional and personal life. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to
its entrepreneurial energy, the city is increasingly recognized as
one of the country's most livable and culturally rich mid-size
metros. For a leader seeking purpose, community connection, and the
chance to leave a legacy-this opportunity delivers on all
fronts.
Position Summary
At United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK), we are changemakers
building a stronger, more equitable community for all. We seek a
visionary, collaborative, and action-oriented leader to serve as
our next Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
This is a dynamic opportunity for an executive who thrives at the
intersection of strategy, community, and systems change. The CEO
will lead with humility, authenticity, and strategic insight,
championing community-driven solutions that address the root causes
of inequity and advance lasting impact across our region. This
leader will foster a culture rooted in integrity, accountability,
and shared success.
The CEO will serve as a visible and inspiring community leader,
guiding a high-performing team of staff and volunteers, partnering
closely with the Board of Directors, and convening stakeholders
across the nonprofit, business, and government sectors. They will
act as UWGK's chief brand steward, building trust, relevance, and
engagement across the Greater Knoxville region, including the
counties of Claiborne, Grainger, Jefferson, Knox and Union.
This role demands an experienced and strategic executive with a
strong track record in organizational leadership, financial
stewardship, and resource development. The CEO will be responsible
for driving revenue growth through philanthropic partnerships,
individual donor cultivation, and institutional fundraising.
Equally important is the ability to build and sustain cross-sector
relationships that strengthen UWGK's role as a vital civic partner
and a catalyst for systems-level change.
The ideal candidate brings a record of success in nonprofit
leadership, deep experience in community partnership, revenue
generation and resource development, and a demonstrated ability to
lead with integrity, vision, and cultural competence.
Leadership Scope
The Chief Executive Officer will lead and directly supervise the
Executive Leadership Team, including the Chief Financial Officer,
Chief Impact Officer, and other senior leaders critical to UWGK's
operations and mission advancement. The CEO also oversees the
Executive Assistant and provides indirect guidance to department
directors and emerging leaders across the organization, across a
total team of 60+ staff.
This role is responsible for cultivating a leadership culture that
fosters accountability, strategic alignment, collaboration, and
continuous development. The CEO ensures that all team members are
empowered to contribute meaningfully to UWGK's mission and are
equipped with the tools, support, and shared purpose to
succeed.
Key Responsibilities
Required Qualifications and Experience
Knoxville is a thriving mid-sized city that blends Southern
hospitality, scenic beauty, and cultural vitality into one of the
Southeast's most livable communities. Set against the backdrop of
the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River, Knoxville offers
the charm of a tight-knit city with the amenities, energy, and
innovation of a much larger metro.
For professionals, Knoxville is more than a great place to
live-it's a place to lead. The city is home to a vibrant and
growing network of civic, nonprofit, and corporate leaders who are
deeply engaged in making a difference. Whether in government,
business, education, or the arts, collaboration and
community-building are in Knoxville's DNA.
A key driver of this professional momentum is the University of
Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), a flagship public research institution
that is integral to the region's growth and innovation. UTK serves
as a major partner to organizations like UWGK, offering robust
opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, thought leadership,
and talent development. Its presence fuels a culture of lifelong
learning and civic leadership throughout the region.
For those raising families, Knoxville offers an array of welcoming
neighborhoods, high-quality schools, and easy access to outdoor
adventures. From day trips to the Smokies to afternoons at the
Knoxville Zoo or the Urban Wilderness trail network, families will
find plenty to explore together. The city also boasts an expanding
arts scene, year-round festivals, minor league and collegiate
sports, and a celebrated culinary community.
Knoxville is attractive to professionals at all life stages. Empty
nesters and mid-career executives appreciate the city's rich
cultural offerings, walkable downtown, and affordability. Its cost
of living remains well below the national average, offering an
appealing blend of lifestyle and economic value.
With quick driving access to Nashville (2.5 hours) and Atlanta (3.5
hours), Knoxville provides regional connectivity without the
congestion of larger cities. It's a place where community impact
meets quality of life-and where leaders come to do their best work
while living fully.
DESIRED START DATE
Fall 2025
LOCATION
The United Way of Greater Knoxville is located in Knoxville TN and
currently requires a hybrid/in office work schedule. Relocation
Assistance is available.
COMPENSATION
The United Way of Greater Knoxville offers a generous annual salary
ranging from $180,000 to $230,000. The actual salary offer will
depend on several factors, including educational qualifications,
training, years of experience, and performance in previous roles.
There is also an annual performance-based incentive that is part of
the potential overall compensation.
BENEFITS
The United Way of Greater Knoxville will offer the new CEO
performance-based bonuses, relocation assistance, and a highly
competitive and comprehensive benefits package.
FOR INFORMATION & TO APPLY
The United Way of Greater Knoxville has retained Kay Linder,
Partner within ThinkingAhead Executive Search's Nonprofit Division
to serve as our recruitment partner. If you are interested and
qualified, please apply here.
Questions can be directed to:
Kay Linder
Partner, Nonprofit Division
ThinkingAhead Executive Search
klinder@thinkingahead.com
Reach out to learn more or nominate a qualified candidate.Upload
your cover letter here (optional)
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Keywords: ThinkingAhead, Johnson City , United Way of Greater Knoxville - Chief Executive Officer, Executive , Knoxville, Tennessee
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