Introduction
Beverly Bootstraps seeks a proven nonprofit leader to guide this thriving, high-profile organization into its next chapter. The ideal candidate will be a strategic, data-driven leader with a strong track record of building relationships across sectors They will bring expertise in planning, fundraising, financial oversight, program evaluation, and collaborative leadership, inspiring others around a shared mission
A compelling communicator and passionate advocate for food security and human dignity, the Executive Director will engage internal teams and mobilize external partners –including donors, community leaders, elected officials, and peer organizations – to deepen the organization’s regional impact. They will also work closely with a committed Board of Directors, bringing an understanding of nonprofit governance and a thoughtful approach to partnership and shared leadership
Founded in 1992 as a small food pantry in a church basement, Beverly Bootstraps has evolved into a $6.5 million organization with a 46-member workforce, serving more than 6,100 individuals annually. Its work is anchored in food assistance and supported by wraparound services that address the root causes of food insecurity, enabling clients to strengthen their foundations for long-term success Its popular Thrift Shop plays a dual role, generating revenue and providing clothing and household goods to clients in need. Together, these integrated supports reflect the organization’s belief that lasting change begins with selfsufficiency and is sustained through strong leadership and a shared commitment to dignity and community.
Serving a Critical, Rapidly Increasing Need
Since its inception, Beverly Bootstraps has evolved in response to shifting economic pressures and rising food insecurity across Beverly, Manchester, Essex, Hamilton, and Wenham. Between 2014 and 2024, its budget doubled to $4.7 million and is projected to reach $6 million in FY 2026 a reflection of growing demand and the community’s deep investment in its mission.
As housing, grocery, healthcare, and transportation costs continue to climb, families across Massachusetts are increasingly forced to make difficult trade-offs In Beverly, where renters spend up to one-third of their income on housing, food often becomes the most flexible, but most fragile, line item in a household budget. (Source: Essex County Community Foundation, Strengthening the Social Safety Net, 2023.)
Demand for food assistance has risen sharply. Between 2022 and 2024, visits to the Beverly Bootstraps Food Pantry increased by 107%, surpassing 20,000 visits in the most recent year The number of individuals served across all programs rose by 43% in the same period This heightened need has been met with extraordinary commitment from board and administrative leaders, staff, volunteers, and generous donors and community partners.
As the organization responds to record levels of need, there is shared recognition that sustaining and deepening its impact will require even greater alignment of people, systems, and infrastructure. The incoming Executive Director will lead Beverly Bootstraps through thoughtful growth and strategic refinement, strengthening its foundation, enhancing efficiency, and preparing the organization for its next decade of service to the community
Meeting the Moment: A Snapshot of Programs
True to its belief that lasting change begins with self-sufficiency, Beverly Bootstraps has built a strong reputation for meeting urgent needs while helping individuals and families toward selfsufficiency. The organization pairs immediate food assistance with personalized supports that empower clients to achieve greater stability and independence. Through case management, adult education programs, youth and family services, and tax preparation services, clients gain tools to overcome barriers and work toward sustained independence. While food assistance remains central to its mission, Beverly Bootstraps embraces a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of food insecurity
Fundraising and Mission Sustainability
Beverly Bootstraps maintains a fundraising program that includes individual giving, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, and in-kind contributions A wellattended annual fundraising gala draws hundreds of supporters, playing a key role in strengthening community engagement and support Additionally, the organization receives donations of food, clothing, and household items through individual contributions and drives organized by community members, local employers, schools, and civic groups. Annual revenue is derived from philanthropic support and Thrift Shop sales. Additionally, the Nourishing Neighbors Today & Tomorrow campaign seeks to raise $3 million to enhance infrastructure and mitigate rising operational costs.
Marketing and Public Engagement
Effective marketing and communications play a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission by building community support, raising awareness of services and programs, and ensuring clients can access critical information. Beverly Bootstraps is expanding its digital footprint through a newly launched website and increased social media engagement. Its monthly digital newsletter and biannual print edition provide regular updates on programs, impact, and giving opportunities.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Beverly Bootstraps’ programs and operations are housed at a 23,000-squarefoot facility on Park Street in Beverly The facility includes the food pantry, administrative offices, classrooms, and distribution space. A small fleet of vehicles, including a mobile food market, extends the organization’s regional reach.
Thrift Shop: Revenue and Reach
A storefront Thrift Shop on Rantoul Street in the center of Beverly serves as both a vital revenue stream and a public-facing extension of Beverly Bootstraps’ mission In addition to generating income, it connects the community and donor base to the organization’s work and supports clients’ needs, while offering a sustainable solution for used household and personal goods. Online shopping options are also a growing enterprise, expanding access and awareness.
The Power of Volunteers
A dedicated 500-member volunteer corps is essential to Beverly Bootstraps’ ability to deliver services with care and consistency Community members get involved by contributing their time and skills across a wide range of programs and services, as well as to fundraising initiatives
Together, these assets – community trust, responsive services, dedicated people, and a strong foundation – create a powerful platform for the future The opportunity is to build on that strength with greater intentionality and a long-term strategy, ensuring that Beverly Bootstraps remains a vital resource for years to come
Mission and Values: Embrace, Educate, Empower
The mission of Beverly Bootstraps is to provide critical resources to families and individuals so they may achieve self-sufficiency. The organization takes a holistic approach to addressing hunger and hardship, offering immediate food assistance and connecting clients to education, community, and support services that promote long-term stability. Rooted in a strong commitment to social justice, Beverly Bootstraps serves those who may lack access to basic needs or opportunity, and it is proud to welcome and work alongside people of all races, genders, ages, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities.
Leadership and Governance
Beverly Bootstraps is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of area residents deeply committed to the organization’s mission, values, and long-term sustainability The Board meets bi-monthly and is supported by active committees, including finance, development, programs, and governance, as well as regular meetings of the Executive Committee.
Executive leadership has remained remarkably consistent, with only two Executive Directors guiding the organization over its 33-year history. This stability has supported steady growth, enabling Beverly Bootstraps to respond nimbly to rising community needs and build trust among clients, donors, and partners
The Executive Director leads a senior team with responsibilities spanning finance, human resources, development and external affairs, client services, support services, and thrift operations. Together, this team ensures the organization’s strategic goals are advanced through coordinated, high-quality service delivery and internal alignment.
A group of board-appointed Advisors contributes subject-matter expertise and participates in committee work, lending their perspective to the organization’s strategic priorities. Additionally, the Friends of Beverly Bootstraps, recognized for their historic volunteer leadership, inspire others to commit time, treasure, and talent to advancing the mission
BEVERLY BOOTSTRAPS ORGANIZATION CHART
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES
DIRECTOR OF SUPPORT SERVICES
DIRECTOR OF THRIFT OPERATIONS
VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR
MARKETING SUPERVISOR
Looking ahead, Beverly Bootstraps’ leadership recognizes the need for greater strategic clarity. The next chapter will require stronger alignment across infrastructure, long-term planning, and investment in systems and organizational capacity It will also require a deeper partnership between the Board and the leadership team – one rooted in shared purpose, mutual trust, and a clear, accountable commitment to the mission
EDUCATION SUPERVISOR
FOOD ASSISTANCE SUPERVISOR
PROGRAMS OPS SUPERVISOR
DEVELOPMENT & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS SUPERVISOR
CLIENT CASE SUPERVISOR
PROGRAMS OPS SUPERVISOR
FOOD ASSISTANCE SUPERVISOR
FOOD ASSISTANCE SUPERVISOR
Financial Stewardship and Accountability
Beverly Bootstraps is committed to strong financial stewardship, ensuring that resources are carefully managed to support its mission of helping individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. The organization has earned top ratings for transparency and accountability – including a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar – reflecting its commitment to ethical practices and responsible management of community support
In-Kind:$1,937,200
Grants:$240,000
Events:$150,000
Campaign:$1,090,000
Unrestricted:$2,035,000
Restricted:$154,000
A diversified revenue base, including philanthropic contributions, Thrift Shop sales, and other income sources, supports long-term financial resilience. As of the close of FY24, audited financials reflected a healthy position, with total assets of $4.8M and total liabilities of $890K. Looking ahead, FY25 revenue is projected at $6 1M, with sustained asset growth anticipated The Board of Directors remains a dedicated financial steward, working closely with organizational leadership to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective deployment of resources that maximize impact
Personnel:$2,960,025
ProfessionalFees:$254,100
CostofGoodsSold:$2,317,890
FY26 BUDGETED REVENUE: $6,520,500 FY26 BUDGETED EXPENSES: $6,205,069
ThriftStoreSales:$914,300
In-Kind:$1,937,200
Grants:$240,000
Events:$150,000
Campaign:$1,090,000
Unrestricted:$2,035,000
Restricted:$154,000
ThriftStoreSales:$914,300
In-Kind:$1937200
Grants:$240,000
Events:$150,000
Campaign:$1,090,000
Unrestricted:$2,035,000
Restricted:$154,000
ThriftStoreSales:$914,300
Other:$611,888
Personnel:$2,960,025
GeneralBusinessExpenses:$254,100
CostofGoodsSold:$2,317,890
Other:$611,888
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Executive Director
Overview
The Executive Director (ED) will lead with clarity and compassion, strengthening systems, cultivating relationships, and guiding the organization through strategic planning, data-informed decisionmaking, financial stewardship, and community partnership Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED leads a senior team of six and oversees a workforce of 46 employees and 500 volunteers
Primary Responsibilities
Culture Building and Volunteer Leadership
Foster a positive, inclusive, and equitable workplace culture that aligns with the organization's mission and values, promoting open and transparent communication.
Invest in staff development and well-being by setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback and coaching, and offering opportunities for growth
Cultivate an effective and engaged Board of Directors by providing regular communication, strategic counsel, and opportunities for meaningful partnership
Support a strong volunteer infrastructure and culture of appreciation, recognizing volunteers as essential to the organization’s success
Strategic Leadership and Operations
Serve as a strategic thought partner to the Board of Directors, providing insight and leadership to position the organization for long-term sustainability and impact.
Partner with the Board to shape and implement a multi-year strategic plan that aligns with the organization’s mission and reflects data-informed priorities.
Drive measurable outcomes, operational efficiency, and mission effectiveness.
Lead the organization’s financial strategy in partnership with the Finance Director and Board Finance Committee, ensuring fiscal discipline, long-term sustainability, and alignment with strategic priorities
Use data to inform program and operational decisions, monitor progress toward strategic objectives, and make course corrections as needed
Oversee effective management of physical assets, including owned and leased facilities and vehicles, ensuring proper maintenance, safety, and alignment with programmatic and operational goals
Lead and support the senior leadership team to foster clear priorities, shared accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.
Fundraising and External Relations
Lead a comprehensive development strategy that strengthens and diversifies contributed revenue
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with individual donors, institutional funders, corporate partners, and other key supporters
Provide external leadership in partnership with the Development team, leveraging the Board and its development committee, and serving as a compelling spokesperson and relationship builder.
Guide annual campaigns, special events, and capital or targeted fundraising efforts as needed. Support and strengthen the organization’s digital engagement strategy, including social media, donor communications, and emerging online retail.
Community and Partnership Engagement
Represent Beverly Bootstraps with integrity and enthusiasm in the community, building visibility and forging trust across sectors.
Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with local nonprofits, community and civic organizations, municipal agencies, and advocacy groups
Stay attuned to local needs and trends in food insecurity and financial vulnerability to ensure the organization remains responsive and relevant
Champion the organization’s role in local and regional policy conversations and advocacy efforts tied to economic security and social justice
Candidate Portrait
The ideal candidate will bring:
A successful track record of nonprofit administration and servant leadership, with demonstrated skill in strategic planning, financial oversight, fundraising, and team management. BA/BS, advanced degree preferred, in business and/or public administration, health/human services, social work, or other relevant discipline, or commensurate experience
A data-driven, outcomes-oriented approach to decision-making and organizational leadership
Exceptional relationship-building skills and a natural ability to inspire trust across diverse stakeholders as the voice of the organization
Judgment and capability to manage organizational assets, including facilities and vehicles, with an eye toward operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and long-term sustainability.
Experience working in or with social services organizations, preferably focused on delivering services to individuals and families in need.
A collaborative and adaptive leadership style, grounded in humility, accountability, and a commitment to service and improving access for people striving to build more secure, selfsufficient lives.
Knowledge of North Shore communities and local landscape is a plus, particularly as it relates to regional partnerships, community needs, and resource networks.
Goals and Objectives
The following goals and objectives have been identified as priorities for the Executive Director in the first 18-24 months:
Organizational Leadership and Culture
Foster a positive and inclusive culture rooted in transparency, trust, and shared values. Build strong relationships with staff, Board members, and key stakeholders. Clarify leadership roles, decisionmaking processes, and collaborative practices. Establish a productive partnership with the Board, built on mutual expectations and aligned priorities.
Strategic Planning and Mission Alignment
Review core operations, program models, and financial systems to support long-term sustainability Use data and community needs assessments to identify program strengths and opportunities for refinement Partner with the Board to launch or refresh a multi-year strategic plan that reflects mission priorities and fiscal realities
Financial Stability and Capital Planning
Ensure the successful planning and execution of the current budget, delivering a balanced year-end outcome. Complete the Nourishing Neighbors Today & Tomorrow campaign and assess new fundraising and revenue opportunities to support ongoing mission delivery. Lead the development of the next fiscal year ’ s budget in alignment with strategic goals. Assess and address building repairs and space utilization challenges; ensure a practical, financially grounded capital planning process that supports program growth
External Relations and Community Visibility
Serve as the organization’s ambassador in the community, deepening relationships with major donors, institutional funders, peer organizations, and public officials. Increase visibility and influence in regional conversations about food insecurity and economic mobility
A Vision for the Future
The following success metrics are envisioned for the future:
Mission-Aligned Programs with Measurable Impact
Program impact is measurable and mission-aligned, with demonstrated outcomes, particularly in helping clients sustain independence. There is also clear articulation of how Beverly Bootstraps addresses the root causes of food insecurity.
Data-Driven Culture Supporting Strategic Decision-Making
Data and evaluation are integrated into programmatic and strategic decision-making, enabling the organization to refine its services, assess progress toward strategic priorities, and communicate its impact to funders and the public.
Financially sound with Aligned Infrastructure
Financial health is achieved through consistently balanced budgets, increased unrestricted philanthropic support, strong donor retention, and reliable institutional backing Facilities and assets are thoughtfully maintained, strategically planned for, and aligned with programmatic needs, providing a solid foundation for continued growth and effective service delivery
Cohesive Leadership Team and Engaged Staff
A healthy and collaborative internal culture supports effective leadership and staff engagement. A cohesive senior leadership team is aligned around shared goals and a track record of continuity. Staff are engaged, mission-focused, and committed to delivering the highest quality of service.
Trusted Community Partner with Expanding Reach and Influence
Beverly Bootstraps holds a visible and trusted role in the community, influencing regional conversations on food insecurity and systems change, while maintaining deep engagement from a diverse Board, vibrant volunteer corps, and committed donor base
Beverly Bootstraps believes that one of a community's great strengths is the rich diversity of its residents in race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, height, weight, physical or mental disability, veteran status, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as established by law Beverly Bootstraps affirms publicly its moral and legal commitment to a policy of equal opportunity and non-discrimination in employment
For inquiry or application, contact info@eesrecruit.com. www.exceptionalexecutivesearch.com
- Walter Ramos Rogerson’s President & CEO