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Executive Director | Parent Empowerment Network
Location: Remote | Part-Time (20-25 hours/week) | Reports to: Board of Directors
About Parent Empowerment Network
The moment a parent learns their child has a serious medical condition, their world turns upside down. They mourn the healthy childhood they imagined for their child. They may feel paralyzed with fear of the unknown, or ill-equipped to care for his/her unique needs and navigate the complex world of sub-specialties. The Parent Empowerment Network (PEN) mission was born from this place, with the vision that at this “moment of impact”, every parent is embraced, encouraged and empowered to rise with courage and hope as their child’s best advocate.
Over the past several years, PEN has impacted countless families through our Empowered by Hope podcast, educational resources, community initiatives, and one-on-one connections. As we enter our next chapter, we are seeking a mission-driven executive leader to grow and strengthen this work for years to come.
A Note to Potential Applicants
Before you read further, we want to say something important.
You may not have held the title of Executive Director before or led a nonprofit. You may have spent the last decade coordinating specialists, managing therapies, organizing medications, advocating in hospitals, educating providers, fundraising for causes you believe in, building online communities, or supporting other families through difficult seasons. Maybe you personally have experienced what we call the “moment of impact,” and have had a deep stirring desire to support other parents coming after you.
If that sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.
Leadership comes in many forms, and some of the most valuable experience is gained through lived experience. If you are passionate about this mission, believe in empowering families, are a strong leader, and are excited to learn and grow, we would love to hear from you.
Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the primary leader and ambassador of PEN. This role combines program development, fundraising, and day-to-day management. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors to advance the organization’s mission, expand its impact, strengthen financial sustainability, and ensure that families continue to receive the support, encouragement, and resources they need.
The ideal candidate is a compassionate leader who can think strategically while also rolling up their sleeves to help move the mission forward. This role requires both leadership and hands-on execution.
Expectations
While there is a lot that goes into running a business (nonprofit or otherwise), upon joining the PEN team, this new hire will narrowly focus on these top two priorities:
Oversee the evaluation, planning and implementation of PEN programs and resources.
Lead fundraising efforts in partnership with the Board and fundraising committee.
A more extensive list of key responsibilities are as follows.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
Provide leadership that advances the mission, vision, and strategic goals of PEN.
Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term strategic priorities.
Foster a culture of hope, encouragement, service, collaboration, and excellence.
Recruit, engage, and develop volunteers who are passionate about supporting families.
Help identify new opportunities for growth, impact, and sustainability.
Operations & Program Management
Oversee the evaluation, planning and implementation of PEN programs and resources.
Ensure all content and communications reflect the voice, values, and mission of PEN.
Manage day-to-day organizational operations and ensure resources are used responsibly and effectively.
Support staff, contractors, and volunteers through clear communication, encouragement, and accountability.
Community Engagement & Advocacy
Serve as the public face and spokesperson for PEN.
Build authentic relationships with families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, donors, community partners, and supporters.
Represent the organization at events, meetings, podcasts, speaking engagements, and/or partnership opportunities.
Collaborate with organizations that share a commitment to supporting families of children with complex medical needs.
Fundraising & Financial Stewardship
Lead fundraising efforts in partnership with the Board and fundraising committee.
Cultivate donor relationships, pursue sponsorship opportunities, oversee grant efforts, and grow recurring giving programs.
Work with the Treasurer and Board to develop budgets, monitor financial health, and ensure transparency.
Board Partnership
Maintain a strong and collaborative relationship with the Board of Directors.
Support Board recruitment, onboarding, engagement, and development.
Provide regular updates regarding finances, programs, impact, and organizational priorities.
Assist with strategic planning, policy development, and preparation for Board meetings.
A Flexible Opportunity
Many talented leaders are also balancing caregiving responsibilities and family commitments. That’s why this part-time role is designed with flexibility in mind. While the position averages 20-25 hours per week, there is significant flexibility in when and where those hours are completed.
Who We Are Looking For
Preferred Characteristics
Passion for supporting families of children with complex medical needs.
Compassionate leadership rooted in empathy, humility, and service.
Strong relationship-builder who enjoys connecting with people.
Effective communicator.
Ability to balance big-picture vision with practical execution.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
Preferred Qualifications
Strong candidates may come from a variety of backgrounds. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every qualification listed below.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional or lived experience.
Leadership experience in nonprofit, healthcare, education, advocacy, community-building, business, or related settings.
Experience managing volunteers, teams, projects, programs, or community initiatives.
Fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, communications, or partnership development experience is helpful.
Personal or professional experience supporting families or children with complex medical needs is highly valued.
Why This Role Matters
For many families, the diagnosis of a child’s medical condition can feel isolating and overwhelming. PEN exists to remind parents that they are not alone, and then equip them to rise as an empowered advocate.
The next Executive Director will help ensure that more families find hope, support, practical resources, and a community. If that mission resonates with you, we would be honored to hear from you.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position to Emily@ParentEmpowermentNetwork.org. We can’t wait to get to know you!
