Executive Director- 1881 Foundation Inc.

About the Organization:
The 1881 Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the ongoing preservation, 
maintenance, and restoration of the historic Oakwood Country Club, including its clubhouse, 
grounds, and other key architectural resources. In addition to these preservation efforts, the 
Foundation offers educational programs that celebrate the history and significance of Oakwood 
Country Club within the broader community.

Position Summary:
The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the Foundation’s chief executive and provide 
visionary, strategic, and operational leadership. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will 
oversee all aspects of the Foundation’s work — from fundraising and financial management to 
community engagement and program development.
This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic, mission-driven leader to shape the next chapter of an 
organization devoted to preserving one of Kansas City’s historic landmarks. The ideal candidate 
will bring deep nonprofit experience, a passion for historic preservation, and a collaborative 
leadership style that inspires others to advance the Foundation’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Lead the Foundation in achieving its mission and long-term strategic goals.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and accountability among staff, 
volunteers, and partners.
• Translate the Board’s vision into actionable plans that ensure the sustainability and 
impact of preservation and education efforts.
• Stay attuned to trends in historic preservation and identify new opportunities for 
community engagement and growth.

Fundraising & Financial Stewardship
• Develop and execute innovative fundraising strategies to support restoration, 
maintenance, and educational initiatives.
• Build and nurture relationships with major donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations to 
ensure a diverse and stable funding base.
• Oversee financial operations, including budgeting, planning, and reporting, ensuring 
fiscal responsibility and transparency.
• Collaborate with the Board to strengthen long-term financial sustainability through 
endowment and capital campaign initiatives.

Board Relations & Governance
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, providing strategic insight and 
operational updates that support informed governance.
• Maintain open and effective communication between the Board and staff, fostering 
shared accountability for organizational performance.
• Support Board recruitment and development to ensure diverse perspectives and strong 
leadership.

Community Engagement & Partnerships
• Represent the Foundation as its public voice, building awareness and enthusiasm for its 
mission.
• Cultivate partnerships with local government, community organizations, preservation 
groups, and educational institutions.
• Oversee educational programming that deepens appreciation for Oakwood’s history and 
architectural heritage.
• Serve as a visible and accessible leader within the community, strengthening the 
Foundation’s reputation and reach.

Qualifications:
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of three years working in a non-profit organization, with a 
demonstrated track record in fundraising and program development. Grant writing 
experience is a plus.

Skills & Attributes:
• Visionary leader with the ability to inspire others and translate ideas into results.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit operations, governance, and preservation principles.
• Exceptional communicator and relationship-builder across diverse audiences.
• Strategic thinker who can balance big-picture goals with hands-on execution.
• Passionate advocate for historic preservation and community engagement.
• High integrity, adaptability, and commitment to excellence