Saddle Up! seeks an inspiring, relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth. The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive officer, responsible for strategic leadership, staff development, fundraising, board relations, and ensuring Saddle Up! delivers on its mission with heart and high performance. Our mission is to transform the lives of children and young adults with disabilities through life-changing equine experiences. With a passionate team, dedicated volunteers, and a strong foundation, we’re ready to grow—are you the one to help us do it?
This is an exciting opportunity for a visionary leader who thrives on building relationships—with donors, staff, volunteers, the Board, and the broader community—and is passionate about creating meaningful, measurable impact.
As Middle Tennessee’s oldest and largest program of its kind, we are built on passion, compassion, and a strong commitment to excellence and impact. Let’s make a difference together!
Lead with purpose—aligning people, vision, and mission
Build and nurture authentic donor and community relationships
Inspire and grow a high-performing staff and volunteer team
Partner with a supportive and engaged Board of Directors
Guide financial stewardship and fundraising strategy
Serve as the voice of Saddle Up! in the community
Champion the mission and vision of Saddle Up! in all areas of work.
Partner with the Board of Directors to refine and implement long-term strategic goals.
Serve as the lead spokesperson and ambassador of the organization, increasing visibility and community engagement.
Lead the planning and execution of a diversified fundraising strategy, including major gifts, grants, special events, sponsorships, and planned giving.
Build and nurture authentic relationships with donors and stakeholders to ensure long-term sustainability.
Inspire a culture of philanthropy across the board, staff, and volunteers.
Cultivate a strong, transparent working relationship with the Board of Directors.
Equip the Board with the information and tools needed for high-level governance and fundraising effectiveness.
Partner with the Board in identifying, recruiting, and onboarding new members.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and empowering workplace culture.
Recruit, develop, and retain talented staff and volunteers who are aligned with the mission.
Provide coaching, mentorship, and ongoing professional development for all team members.
Oversee the organization’s financial health in partnership with the Director of Finance and Board Treasurer.
Develop and manage annual budgets, monitor financial performance, and maintain sound financial policies and practices.
Experienced in nonprofit or mission-driven leadership (5+ years)
Fundraising-savvy and donor-relations focused
Passionate about staff development and inclusive leadership
Skilled at working with Boards, volunteers, and diverse communities
Strategic, collaborative, and full of heart
Ready to make a BIG impact
Minimum of 7 years of executive leadership experience in a nonprofit or relevant business sector.
Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor engagement.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred.
Inspirational and collaborative leader with emotional intelligence and integrity.
Skilled communicator with the ability to connect with diverse audiences—from parents to philanthropists.
Strong public speaking and storytelling abilities.
Experience working with nonprofit boards and supporting governance best practices.
Commitment to developing people and cultivating a team environment of trust, accountability, and respect.
Competent in nonprofit financial management, including budgeting and compliance.
Comfortable using technology tools (CRM, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.) for efficiency and reporting.
Deep belief in the Saddle Up! mission and a heart for children and young adults with disabilities.
Energetic, compassionate, and driven to lead a mission-first organization with excellence.
Competitive salary negotiable based on experience
401(k) with match available from first day of employment
Full health benefits with percentage of employee healthcare insurance costs employer paid
Generous PTO package
Workers Compensation insurance fully employer paid
Flexible work schedule (this role is not a remote or hybrid role, but flexibility and balance is important to our work lives)
A truly meaningful mission
Supportive and passionate team environment
Interested candidates should send a detailed letter of interest and resume to apply@saddleupnashville.org.
Saddle Up! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone can thrive.
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