Columbus, Ohio client is seeking a direct hire Executive Director for the opportunity to collaborate with, support, and elevate the very best of Columbus’ thriving fashion community. As the Executive Director, you will engage with designers, entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders to shape the future of fashion in Central Ohio.

This will be a remote job but they will have to reside in Columbus, Ohio as the events occur here and the client meets weekly.

The Role:
The Executive Director serves as the top operational and strategic leader of the organization. Working in close collaboration with the Board of Directors, this role is responsible for advancing the mission, growing partnerships, overseeing programs, managing financial health, and ensuring organizational sustainability.
The individual selected for this position will bring vision, professionalism, and a passion for fashion, culture, and nonprofit service.

Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership and Governance

• Partner with the Board of Directors to define and implement the long-term vision and strategic plan
• Provide timely reports, analysis, and recommendations to support informed Board decision-making
• Assist in Board development, including recruitment, orientation, and engagement of members
• Ensure alignment of all programs and operations with the client's mission, values, and strategic priorities
  
  

Fundraising and External Engagement

• Develop and lead fundraising strategies including grants, donor cultivation, sponsorships, and special events
• Build and maintain strong relationships with sponsors, foundations, civic leaders, and community partners
• Represent client publicly through media appearances, speaking engagements, and participation in key community and industry events
• Elevate the visibility of the client locally and nationally through strategic storytelling and brand engagement
  
  

Program Oversight and Event Production

• Lead planning and execution of major programs and events, including Fashion Week Columbus, The Fashion Industry Conference, and community fashion initiatives
• Manage fashion show production elements such as venue coordination, runway logistics, backstage management, model casting, and vendor engagement
• Ensure programs are innovative, inclusive, and executed to professional industry standards
• Leverage industry knowledge to curate relevant content, partnerships, and experiences that reflect current trends and emerging voices in fashion
  
  

Operations and Financial Management

• Develop and manage annual budgets in alignment with strategic goals and fiduciary responsibilities
• Oversee financial reporting, audits, and internal controls to ensure accountability and transparency
• Maintain compliance with all applicable nonprofit, local, state, and federal regulations
• Manage vendor contracts, insurance policies, and operational systems to support organizational efficiency
  
  

People and Culture Leadership

• Recruit, develop, and manage a high-performing team that includes staff, contractors, and volunteers
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture grounded in respect, creativity, and accountability
• Conduct regular performance reviews and professional development planning for team members
  
  

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Ensure that programs, partnerships, and internal practices reflect a commitment to equity and representation
• Build bridges across diverse communities in Central Ohio to ensure broad engagement with the fashion ecosystem

Qualifications

• Proven success in nonprofit leadership, event management, or creative industry program development
• Direct experience in fashion show production and familiarity with professional standards in fashion event execution
• Strong understanding of the fashion industry, including emerging talent pipelines, community-based markets, or regional fashion ecosystems
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience leading teams, setting priorities, and executing high-impact programs in fast-paced or entrepreneurial environments
• Strategic thinker with operational discipline and a passion for innovation
• Familiarity with nonprofit governance and experience working with a Board of Directors is essential
• Bachelor’s degree in fashion, business, nonprofit management, or a related field is preferred but not required
• Additional experience in marketing, communications, fundraising, or production logistics is a plus

Reference: 1032255

Worried that you don’t meet every single requirement listed in the job ad? Studies have shown that individuals from marginalized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Hive + Co. is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and representative workplace, so if you’re excited about this role, but worried that you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyways. We’d love to get to know you.