JW House: Executive Director

JW House is seeking a compassionate, strategic, and people-centered leader who will build on the organization’s strong foundation while bringing fresh vision, inspiration, and operational leadership to the JW House community. The Executive Director will mentor and support a dedicated team while advancing organizational excellence, philanthropic growth, and community partnerships. Blending executive leadership, sophisticated fundraising, and a grounded presence, this role requires a leader who brings empathy, diplomacy, and sound judgment while elevating JW House’s legacy of care for families facing medical crises. There are opportunities to expand services, including serving more families and increasing on-site capacity through additional suites, while growing community awareness and philanthropic support.

About JW House:

JW House was inspired by Jan-Willem Knapen, a young boy who, while battling cancer, sought to support other children and families in similar situations. The organization plays a vital role in keeping families together during medical crises, providing them with a nurturing and compassionate environment close to hospitals, which fosters hope and healing. With core values rooted in respect for the dignity of patients, families, caregivers, and the wider community, JW House emphasizes the importance of family presence in healing, the well-being of caregivers, and the collective strength needed to face serious illnesses together. The message is clear: every day is invaluable, and they are committed to never giving up.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning 

• Mission Fulfillment: Work with the Board and staff to ensure the mission is realized
  through innovative programs, strategic planning, and community outreach.

• Strategic Execution: Develop and implement a long-term strategic plan that balances high-
  level growth with the day-to-day hospitality needs of the House.

• Institutional Learning: Commit to an initial period of listening to absorb the organization’s
  'why,' while simultaneously providing the steady operational leadership and strategic
  momentum necessary to advance our mission.

Operational Excellence 

• Staff Mentorship: Invest in a high performing team by providing consistent support, clear
  delegation, and professional development.

• Culture of Integrity: Cultivate a workplace culture rooted in transparency, emotional
  intelligence, and mutual respect.

• Operational Oversight: Support the staff in supervising house activities to ensure
  maximum resource utilization and a positive financial position.

Outreach, Advocacy, & Development 

• Chief Ambassador: Uphold the image of JW House by being visible in the community and
  working closely with professional, civic, and private organizations and foundations.

• Donor Cultivation: Lead the charge in identifying and securing resources necessary to
  sustain the mission, focusing on major gifts and corporate alignment.

• Advocacy: Ensure that families facing medical crises are never alone by advocating for the
  "home away from home" model within the broader healthcare landscape.

Candidate Profile

• Empathetic Executive: You possess deep emotional
  maturity and a "hospitality mindset," ensuring the mission
  remains foundational in every interaction.

• Stabilizer & Bridge-Builder: You are a transparent
  communicator who can foster consensus between the
  Board and staff while listening first to learn institutional
  knowledge.

• Results-Oriented Fundraiser: You are a relationship
  builder who finds joy in building the donor base, securing
  major gifts, and connecting donors with JW House’
  impactful work.

• Operational Steward: You bring a calm, steady presence
  under pressure and a commitment to rigorous fiscal and
  organizational integrity

Relevant Expertise

• Executive Leadership: 5–10 years of senior management experience leading teams,
  preferably within nonprofit, human services, or healthcare settings.

• Development & Marketing: Proven track record in representing and marketing an
  organization to high net worth individuals with a goal to increase philanthropic support and
  corporate partnerships.

• Board Governance: Experience working closely with a Board of Directors to fulfill a mission,
  providing the timely and accurate financial data needed for informed decision-making.

• Fiscal Management: Strong competency in nonprofit accounting, budget-planning, cash flow
  management, and maintaining internal controls to ensure long-term viability.

Compensation

• Salary Range: $150,000-$170,000 (Commensurate with experience).

• Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; and a
  generous PTO policy.

• Reporting: This position reports directly to the JW House Board of Directors.

To Apply

JW House has partnered with The Arora Collective to recruit the right leader for this pivotal position. The Arora Collective will review résumés on a rolling basis beginning on 5/22/2026. If you are interested in applying, Please submit a résumé and a brief statement of interest that includes your motivation for the role, relevant leadership experience, and how your background prepares you to contribute to JW House’s mission and growth to apply@thearoracollective.com.