Executive Director

Organization: Catawba Indian Nation Foundation

Location: Multi-Site/Hybrid – Kings Mountain, NC & Catawba Indian Nation Reservation (as appropriate)

About the Catawba Indian Nation Foundation

The Catawba Indian Nation Foundation, Inc. (‘the Foundation’) was established as a part of the Tribal-State Compact in 2021 with the State of North Carolina. It is funded from the proceeds generated by the Nation’s Catawba Two Kings Casino based in Kings Mountain, NC. The Foundation’s purpose is to support causes as outlined in the Tribal-State Compact, including projects that support the people and ancestral lands of Catawba Nation and assist in the economic development in communities throughout the region.

The Opportunity

Established in 2021, the Foundation’s Board of Directors were appointed in late 2023 and are in the process of building out the grantmaking strategy in 2024 with the support of social good strategy company Next Stage. The Foundation’s board of directors comprises the Chief and Assistant Chief of Catawba Nation, as well as members appointed by the North Carolina Governor.

As outlined in the Tribal-State Compact, the purpose of the Foundation is two-fold: supporting projects that serve the people and ancestral lands of the Catawba Nation while also contributing to the non-gaming economic development and social services in the communities where Catawba Two Kings Casino is located. 

The Foundation is seeking an Executive Director to join the organization in fall 2024 to participate in the design of grantmaking efforts and the build-out of the staffing structure. Next Stage is assisting in the design and implementation of the first year of operations, including sourcing this very important role.

The Role

The Foundation’s Executive Director will serve as the face of the grantmaking institution to the community, and will be the chief administrator managing the day-to-day activities of the philanthropy. Chief responsibilities include:

Leadership & Community Engagement

• Create and maintain strong relationships with Catawba Nation leaders, nonprofit organizations and external community leaders to understand and articulate evolving needs of the Tribe, in Cleveland County and throughout the region;
• Work closely with the Board Chair and Executive Committee to understand and advance appropriate board governance; maintain clear lines of communication and provide opportunities for board leadership and engagement;
• Be a respected leader representing the Foundation locally, regionally, and statewide, and demonstrate the ability to partner across racial, economic, ethnic, and geographic differences with authenticity;
• Maintain a high level of knowledge on issues and regulation applicable to charitable giving aligned to the Tribal-State Compact;
• Represent the Foundation in the community at large; at public and private events, grantee events, public hearings, panels, and various other engagements in the region, including engagement with Catawba Nation and external community initiatives.

Grantmaking and Related Activities

• Evaluate grantseeking submissions and applications, and conduct due diligence including interviews, site visits, and review of budgets and financial information. Prepare summaries and make recommendations to the Board concerning grant proposals;
• Research and keep abreast of issues, trends, and best practices in the Foundation's areas of grantmaking focus;
• Monitor grantee performance by reviewing and summarizing grantee reports, maintaining positive relationships with grantees, providing technical assistance, and engaging in evaluation and problem-solving;
• Leverage the Foundation’s grantmaking to spur additional investment in projects supporting Catawba Nation and priority communities.

Administration

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Foundation including overseeing grant administration and operations and ensure compliance with all policies as well as legal and contractual obligations;
• Oversee budgeting, investments, the annual financial audit, tax filings, and maintenance of correct and complete records required for the healthy operation of the Foundation;
• Work with the Board and investment advisors to ensure that the Foundation's investments and financial management are effective and appropriately aligned with the Foundation's vision and mission;
• Work closely with a highly qualified and motivated professional staff; foster open communications and a collaborative spirit;
• Arrange and attend board meetings and activities including preparing facilities and agenda; oversee materials development; implement board directives; communicate with the Board between meetings;

EXPERIENCE

A successful Executive Director candidate will have:

• Significant experience with a grantmaking foundation and/or broad experience leading a well-respected nonprofit or similar institution;
• Experience as the face of an organization; well-developed interpersonal skills; superb oral and written communication skills;
• Ability to accurately assess nonprofit leadership, operational, and financial capacity and perform other due diligence required;
• Experience in strong financial and organizational management; knowledge of financial instruments, rules, regulations, and standards for family foundations
• Evidence of developing and implementing strategy by being a strategic thinker, planner, and executor with an inclusive operating style that encourages engagement;
• A history of strong collaboration and actively seeking strategic partnerships
• Familiarity with Catawba Nation and the Cleveland County nonprofit landscape a plus