Job Opening

Position Announcement - President/CEO

The Organization

Founded in 1956 in Mobile, Alabama, Goodwill Industries of the Gulf Coast is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving seven counties in southwest Alabama and three counties in northwest Florida. For the past 69 years, Goodwill Gulf Coast has provided programs and services that have helped make communities stronger through workforce development, children and family services, education services, and support programs. Through partnerships with other Goodwill organizations, government agencies, other non-profits, health service providers, and academic institutions, Goodwill Gulf Coast has consistently managed to increase its range of programs/services and the number of individuals served over the past seven decades.

Background

The current President/CEO of Goodwill Gulf Coast will retire in October 2025, following 46 years of service. During his tenure, Goodwill Gulf Coast has expanded to include 10 Retail stores, two Outlet Stores, 10 Attended Donation Centers, and six Opportunity Centers in its 10-county service area. Goodwill Gulf Coast also operates an inclusive Child Development Center, the Kaleidoscope Day Program for adults with disabilities, the Mobile County Recycling Center (through a partnership with the Mobile County Commission), and GWI Services, a sister company that administers two AbilityOne janitorial contracts in collaboration with the GSA and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Goodwill Gulf Coast is known among Goodwill organizations for its efficient retail operations and a focus on bottom-line results which maximize the financial support for Goodwill’s mission. This success has enabled the organization to invest in its people, facilities, and programs; create a strong financial position; and position the organization for continued mission and retail expansion. In terms of future growth, Goodwill Gulf Coast has begun the process of constructing two new Retail Stores/Opportunity Centers in Foley, Alabama (projected opening in Sept. 2025) and Gulf Breeze, FL (projected opening in 2026).

Key Facts

Territory population:  1.5 million
Number of employees:  547 (with 41% reporting a disability)
Total revenue: $32.9 million
Retail revenue: $23.6 million
People served: 14,474
Services provided: 23,479
Physical locations: 25 sites (404,000 sq. ft.)

Position Overview

The President/CEO of Goodwill Gulf Coast is responsible for providing visionary leadership and operational oversight for the organization. The role includes ensuring the growth, sustainability, and alignment of the organization’s mission to serve the community through education, workforce development, employment opportunities, and other life-enriching services. The President/CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors, executive leadership team, employees, and community partners to achieve organizational goals and ensure strategic initiatives are effectively executed.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Vision:

• Cultivates a mission-driven culture that fosters creativity and innovation, empowers staff, and promotes diversity and inclusion.
• Leads by example, providing visionary leadership that strengthens Goodwill’s operations, programs, workforce, and brand, positioning the organization for long-term growth and success. 
• Develops and implements a clear vision, as well as strategic and operational plans in alignment with Goodwill’s mission. 
• Continuously assess operations to ensure sustainability and impact, adapting to changing circumstances as needed.

2. Board Relations & Governance:

• Works in partnership with and reports to the Goodwill Board of Directors and Board Chair to support and guide Goodwill’s governance and fiduciary responsibilities. 
• Maintain transparent and timely communication with the Board, providing updates on goals, market trends, and challenges.
• Champions and promotes Goodwill’s mission to attract high caliber volunteers to the Board and helps to lead Board Development efforts to ensure optimal Board performance with specific focus on promoting a Board composition that is representative of the communities and participants served. 
• Provides guidance on all activities associated with the Board of Directors, including staffing for Board and Committee meetings, meeting schedules, development of agenda, meeting materials, etc. 

3. Financial Stewardship:

• Demonstrates strong business and financial acumen, finds innovative ways to secure the fiscal stability and health of the organization, understands the implications of decisions on short- and long-term plans. 
• Ensures efficient operations with a focus on bottom line results thus maximizing the financial support for Goodwill’s mission, enabling the organization to invest in its people, facilities, programs, and communities, positioning the organization for mission expansion. 
• Formulates strategies to address financial challenges associated with economic constraints, competition, markets, and business trends, shifts in public/private funding, etc., understanding the budget’s impact on the mission and decisions of the organization. 
• Ensures the development of annual operating budgets and associated reporting for the 501(c)(3) Corporation and affiliates, managing the budgets within approved guidelines. 

4. Retail Operations:

• Provide strategic oversight and leadership to Goodwill’s retail division, ensuring it serves as a sustainable and impactful revenue source to support mission programs.
• Drive operational excellence within retail stores by implementing effective business strategies, optimizing sales, and enhancing customer experience.
• Oversee the development and implementation of strategies to increase donation acquisition through community partnerships, donation drives, and enhanced donor engagement efforts.
• Foster a culture of innovation within the retail division to continuously improve operations and adapt to market trends.
• Ensure that retail operations provide meaningful employment opportunities and support workforce development initiative

5. Program & Mission Services:

• Drive the development and enhancement of mission-focused programs.
• Ensure the highest quality of service delivery to meet or exceed community expectations.
• Support and promote mission integration within the organization's internal operations.

6. Organizational Culture & Human Resources:

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven organizational culture, focusing on employee engagement, professional development, and retention.
• Ensure effective talent management strategies, succession planning, and leadership development within the organization.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that align with organizational goals and community representation.

7. Fundraising & Resource Development:

• Drive innovative fundraising strategies and cultivate partnerships that expand Goodwill’s financial base, ensuring the organization remains competitive and financially resilient.
• Cultivate relationships with government agencies, corporations, foundations, and individual donors.
• Ensure Goodwill remains competitive and financially resilient through diverse revenue streams.

8. Community & Public Relations:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson of Goodwill Gulf Coast, enhancing brand visibility and community impact.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and community organizations.
• Serve as an advocate for our programs and public policy initiatives that align with Goodwill’s mission, representing the organization at the local, state, and national levels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of executive-level leadership experience in not-for-profit or for-profit company required 

Competencies & Skills

• Visionary and strategic thinker
• Proven ability to manage complex, multi-functional organizations
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial analysis, and fundraising.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse groups
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Innovative and adaptable, with the ability to navigate change
• Demonstrated emotional intelligence, with the ability to lead through conflict, build consensus, and foster a collaborative environment.
• Proficiency in leveraging digital tools and data-driven strategies to enhance organizational performance and community outreach
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills.
• Deep commitment to the mission of Goodwill Gulf Coast and a passion for service to others.

About Mobile, AL

Goodwill Gulf Coast is headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, a city enriched by opportunity, culture, and community. Here’s why Mobile is an ideal place to live and thrive for professionals and their families:

Community Spirit: For a city of its size, Mobile maintains a small-town feel with a strong sense of community. Residents are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to form connections and build relationships. As a leader, you’ll find a supportive network of fellow professionals and a community that values collaboration and progress.

Dynamic Economy: Mobile's economy is thriving, with a growth rate of 2.7% over the past year. Key industries include aerospace, maritime, healthcare, and technology. Major employers like Airbus, Austal USA, and the Port of Mobile contribute to a robust job market, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to many metropolitan areas, Mobile boasts a significantly lower cost of living (about 15% lower than the national average). Housing, utilities, and everyday expenses are more affordable, with the median home price around $200,000, compared to the national median of about $400,000.

Education and Healthcare: Mobile is home to well-regarded K-12 public and private schools and reputable institutions of higher education including the University of South Alabama. The city’s healthcare system is robust, with hospitals and facilities like USA Health and Mobile Infirmary providing excellent medical care.

Rich History and Culture: Mobile is steeped in history, with beautiful architecture and a lively arts scene. Explore historic districts, enjoy festivals and events including Mardi Gras and the Fairhope Arts Festival, and visit art, history, and cultural museums that celebrate the city’s heritage and culture.

Ample Outdoor Recreation: With its picturesque bay, lush parks, and proximity to beaches, Mobile is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you love hiking, boating, or soaking up the sun, there's something for everyone.

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