3 minutes
How to recruit a great CEO for your East Midlands charity
Finding the right CEO for your charity isn’t just about filling a role.
You want to find someone who can genuinely elevate your organisation.
Someone who personifies the values and purpose of your mission.
But also someone who has the skills and experience to be an effective business leader.
It’s a lot to ask for!
So how do you go about finding these hidden gems around our region?
Start by tapping into local networks
One of the best ways to source your new CEO is by leveraging local networks and connections within the East Midlands.
Start by attending events or contacting organisations like the East Midlands Chamber and your local business forums.
These platforms are excellent for building relationships with executives who may be looking for meaningful career changes.
Consider reaching out to local universities such as De Montfort University and the University of Leicester who can connect you to alumni networks rich in talent and experience.
And get in touch with non-profit specialist such as Voluntary Action LeicesterShire, which are experienced in the requirements of such roles.
Leveraging regular gatherings, such as those hosted by Executive Networking or Leicestershire Business Voice, gives access to platforms to connect with seasoned professionals seeking meaningful career changes.
Organisations such as the IoD also hosts various events, from business forums to networking sessions, offering opportunities to meet that next visionary leader.
Position your charity as a professional opportunity
To attract executives, market your charity as having a business-oriented mindset.
Senior executives considering a move into the charitable sector often worry about whether their skills will translate effectively.
Therefore, you need to show them clearly how their professional expertise can help drive your business forward.
How?
By outlining the impact you’ve made in the community and in strategic growth, operational efficiency, and sustainability of your business.
And don’t forget to include this messaging on your careers page for maximum visibility.
Emphasise the route to real impact
Executives transitioning from corporate to charity careers often do so because they want to see tangible impact from their work.
So, when promoting your CEO role, make sure to communicate the real life benefits your charity delivers. There are some simple ways to do this:
● Provide concrete figures about funding won and support outcomes delivered
● Use genuine case studies and success stories to show how you change lives
● Set out the quality of your people - from Board through to frontline volunteers.
Where do you find inspiration?
You might see it in news stories highlighting charity initiatives across the East Midlands, such as members promoted by East Midlands Chamber or success stories shared by your local community foundation or mid-sized regional charities.
Demonstrating tangible examples of community impact will resonate with purposeful candidates.
Communicate the charity’s values
A recent article in Third Sector described a noticeable rise in senior business leaders transitioning into charity leadership.
C-suite figures are attracted by the opportunity to use their expertise for social good.
Capitalising on this trend will help your non-profit appeal directly to candidates seeking a new challenge in a purpose-led environment.
So be clear and upfront about what you stand for - and also set out what you don’t accept.
Partner with a specialist recruitment agency
Finally, consider partnering with specialised recruitment agencies.
Ideally, you are looking for providers which are experienced in both the charity and corporate leadership recruitment.
Here at Eileen Richards Recruitment, for example, we offer tailored services that can expertly bridge the gap between commercial and charitable sectors.
We connect you with your ideal candidate.
Ultimately, the right CEO for your charity is someone who aligns professionally and personally with your mission.
By tapping into local networks, positioning your charity as an innovative enterprise, and highlighting the transformative opportunity you offer, you'll attract exactly the leader your charity needs to thrive.
If you’re looking for more advice, get in touch with our team of executive recruitment experts today - we’re here to support your journey!
You want to find someone who can genuinely elevate your organisation.
Someone who personifies the values and purpose of your mission.
But also someone who has the skills and experience to be an effective business leader.
It’s a lot to ask for!
So how do you go about finding these hidden gems around our region?
Start by tapping into local networks
One of the best ways to source your new CEO is by leveraging local networks and connections within the East Midlands.
Start by attending events or contacting organisations like the East Midlands Chamber and your local business forums.
These platforms are excellent for building relationships with executives who may be looking for meaningful career changes.
Consider reaching out to local universities such as De Montfort University and the University of Leicester who can connect you to alumni networks rich in talent and experience.
And get in touch with non-profit specialist such as Voluntary Action LeicesterShire, which are experienced in the requirements of such roles.
Leveraging regular gatherings, such as those hosted by Executive Networking or Leicestershire Business Voice, gives access to platforms to connect with seasoned professionals seeking meaningful career changes.
Organisations such as the IoD also hosts various events, from business forums to networking sessions, offering opportunities to meet that next visionary leader.
Position your charity as a professional opportunity
To attract executives, market your charity as having a business-oriented mindset.
Senior executives considering a move into the charitable sector often worry about whether their skills will translate effectively.
Therefore, you need to show them clearly how their professional expertise can help drive your business forward.
How?
By outlining the impact you’ve made in the community and in strategic growth, operational efficiency, and sustainability of your business.
And don’t forget to include this messaging on your careers page for maximum visibility.
Emphasise the route to real impact
Executives transitioning from corporate to charity careers often do so because they want to see tangible impact from their work.
So, when promoting your CEO role, make sure to communicate the real life benefits your charity delivers. There are some simple ways to do this:
● Provide concrete figures about funding won and support outcomes delivered
● Use genuine case studies and success stories to show how you change lives
● Set out the quality of your people - from Board through to frontline volunteers.
Where do you find inspiration?
You might see it in news stories highlighting charity initiatives across the East Midlands, such as members promoted by East Midlands Chamber or success stories shared by your local community foundation or mid-sized regional charities.
Demonstrating tangible examples of community impact will resonate with purposeful candidates.
Communicate the charity’s values
A recent article in Third Sector described a noticeable rise in senior business leaders transitioning into charity leadership.
C-suite figures are attracted by the opportunity to use their expertise for social good.
Capitalising on this trend will help your non-profit appeal directly to candidates seeking a new challenge in a purpose-led environment.
So be clear and upfront about what you stand for - and also set out what you don’t accept.
Partner with a specialist recruitment agency
Finally, consider partnering with specialised recruitment agencies.
Ideally, you are looking for providers which are experienced in both the charity and corporate leadership recruitment.
Here at Eileen Richards Recruitment, for example, we offer tailored services that can expertly bridge the gap between commercial and charitable sectors.
We connect you with your ideal candidate.
Ultimately, the right CEO for your charity is someone who aligns professionally and personally with your mission.
By tapping into local networks, positioning your charity as an innovative enterprise, and highlighting the transformative opportunity you offer, you'll attract exactly the leader your charity needs to thrive.
If you’re looking for more advice, get in touch with our team of executive recruitment experts today - we’re here to support your journey!
