Description

Exciting Opportunity

The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC) seeks a mission-driven leader to serve as its next President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This is a unique opportunity to lead a highly respected, 90+ year-old organization that is widely recognized for its ability to bring people together, foster understanding, and create meaningful, lasting change across communities.

VCIC's next CEO will step into a position of strength with a talented and dedicated team, a trusted reputation, and deep relationships across the Commonwealth. They will have the opportunity to guide the organization into its next phase of growth and impact. The role calls for a thoughtful, forward-looking leader who can balance vision with execution, honor a powerful legacy while embracing innovation, and serve as a steady, trusted voice in an increasingly complex and evolving landscape.

VCIC Overview

From Virginia's Tidewater Region to Lynchburg, VCIC works on programs related to identity, such as race, class, gender, etc. It is dedicated to helping people and communities across Virginia achieve success through inclusion, understanding, and respect. Through programs that engage students, educators, businesses, and community leaders, VCIC equips individuals with the tools to navigate challenges, build relationships, and foster belonging. 

With a presence across multiple regions of Virginia, VCIC is known for:

• Delivering high-quality, transformative programs that have lasting personal and professional impact
• Building bridges across diverse communities, sectors, and generations
• Maintaining a nonpartisan, trusted position that allows it to convene meaningful dialogue
• Cultivating a culture of caring, collaboration, and continuous learning internally

Its work is often described as "life-changing" by participants, and its role in strengthening communities has never been more essential.

Please see inclusiveva.org for more information. 

Looking Forward

VCIC is poised for its next stage, one that builds on its strong foundation while expanding its reach, relevance, and sustainability.

Key priorities for the next CEO include:

• Expanding impact and deepening engagement in existing regions
• Strengthening and diversifying revenue streams, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, and new funding models
• Navigating a rapidly evolving social and political landscape, ensuring the work remains relevant, effective, and accessible
• Enhancing VCIC's role as a thought partner and convener, particularly with schools, higher education, businesses, and community organizations
• Supporting and sustaining a high-performing team, recognizing both the emotional demands and the importance of a healthy, flexible workplace culture

The next CEO will help position VCIC not only as a leader within Virginia, but also as a model for inclusive community-building more broadly.

Job Responsibilities

The CEO is responsible for advancing VCIC's mission, strengthening its impact, and ensuring organizational sustainability. Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Leadership
  • Set and execute a clear, forward-looking vision aligned with VCIC's mission and strategic priorities
  • Balance innovation with respect for the organization's history and established strengths
  • Identify opportunities for new partnerships
• External Leadership & Community Engagement
  • Serve as a visible and credible ambassador across the Commonwealth
  • Build and sustain strong relationships with community leaders, partners, and stakeholders
  • Facilitate dialogue across diverse perspectives and constituencies
  • Represent VCIC in public forums, media, and speaking engagements
• Fundraising & Resource Development
  • Lead efforts to diversify and grow revenue streams
  • Cultivate major donors, corporate partners, and institutional funders
  • Strengthen long-term financial sustainability beyond traditional funding sources
• Organizational Leadership
  • Lead, support, and develop a high-performing team
  • Foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning
  • Ensure operational excellence, including financial management and resource allocation
• Board Partnership & Governance
  • Partner closely with the Board to advance strategic priorities
  • Support strong board engagement, transparency, and shared accountability
• Programmatic & Mission Alignment
  • Ensure programs remain high-quality, impactful, and responsive to community needs
  • Help translate complex social issues into accessible, actionable learning experiences

Qualifications

VCIC seeks a well-rounded, emotionally intelligent, and forward-thinking leader with a demonstrated ability to lead in complex environments. Ideal candidates will bring:

• Leadership & Management
  • Senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, education, community-based, or related setting
  • Proven ability to lead experienced teams, manage operations, and oversee budgets
• Mission Alignment
  • Commitment to and experience in helping groups and communities increase respect, inclusion and belonging
  • Ability to engage across a broad range of identities, perspectives, and experiences
• Fundraising & External Engagement
  • Demonstrated success in fundraising and resource development
  • Experience building and sustaining long-term relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Strategic & Visionary Thinking
  • Ability to think strategically while executing effectively
  • Curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and evolve
  • Knowledge and understanding of laws, regulations, and best practices that impact VCIC's work.
• Communication & Public Presence
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to adapt approaches and communication methods to the audience.
  • Executive presence, including comfort serving as the public face of an organization in a manner that inspires confidence, trust, and credibility.
• Interpersonal & Emotional Intelligence
  • Strong listening skills and the ability to build trust across differences
  • Demonstrated ability to manage conflict, navigate sensitive topics, and foster collaboration

Richmond, VA is the organization's headquarters. A regular presence across the region, especially in Tidewater, The Peninsula, and Lynchburg is required.

This position reports to the State Board of Directors, collaborates with Chapter representatives, and is responsible for leading a staff of eight.

Compensation is based on experience with a starting range of $150,000 to $190,000.

To Apply

Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references.

References will not be contacted without prior notice to the candidate.

For best consideration, apply by June 20, 2026.

Questions may be directed to:

Cheron Smalls CSmalls@WarrenWhitney.com
Katherine Whitney KWhitney@WarrenWhitney.com

Warren Whitney is an equal opportunity employer. The firm, on behalf of its client, does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable law. Warren Whitney reserves the right to modify or close this search at any time.

Confidentiality

The search process will be conducted with the highest regard for confidentiality. Expressions of interest will remain private until late-stage finalist discussions. VCIC and Warren Whitney recognize that many candidates may be deeply committed to their current organizations but are intrigued by this opportunity. Expressions of interest will remain confidential until the final stages of the search.