We’re partnering with Malaprop’s Bookstore in Asheville to collect books for our Buncombe County students and families. If you’d like to contribute, please take a look at our wishlist of culturally-responsive and age-appropriate books.

As we realize the ways our lives and communities have changed from the effects of Hurricane Helene, we grieve for those who have lost so much. And amidst the devastation, we find hope in the countless acts of kindness that show us the true strength of our communities and the power of human compassion.

We are eager to support our communities during these hard moments, and we will keep showing up in the ways we do best. It is essential that everyone has access to the resources they need to make it through this next chapter–regardless of one’s background, reading or writing skills, or language spoken at home. Together, we are in this for the long haul.

Amanda Wrublewski
Executive Director

Our Vision

A community in which literacy is highly valued and achievable for all.

Our Mission

To increase comprehensive literacy and English language skills through
one-on-one and small group instruction by trained volunteers and access to literacy resources.

The Organization

The Literacy Council of Buncombe County is seeking an experienced and passionate candidate to lead the organization as executive director and add to its exceptional 30+ year history.

The Literacy Council of Buncombe County teaches individuals of all ages basic reading, writing, and English language skills through specialized instruction provided by trained volunteer tutors. Students gain self-confidence and develop self-sufficiency to transform their lives as individuals, parents, workers, and citizens. 

The Literacy Council, a non-profit organization accredited by ProLiteracy and serving the community since 1987, provides highly individualized tutoring to fit the needs of over 300 students annually through the skilled instruction of over 250 volunteer tutors. The Literacy Council is governed by a 17-member board of directors and staffed by five highly skilled professionals and one AmeriCorps member. The organization has an annual budget of $355,000. The organizational culture is collaborative, hardworking, mission-driven, and service-oriented. 

The Region

The Asheville area’s prime location in the spectacular mountains of Western North Carolina and the high quality of life enjoyed in the region makes it attractive as a place where lifestyle complements business opportunity. The area’s consistent and steady growth is the result of the collaborative vision of economic development and strong community partnerships. Health services are known to be the best in the region. In addition to being Western North Carolina’s business hub, the Asheville area is world-renowned as a bustling tourist destination, named one of “15 Coolest Places to Go” in the world by Forbes Magazine. Western North Carolina offers an eclectic arts and music scene and a wide variety of year-round outdoor activities.

The Position

The Literacy Council is poised to move to the next level of growth effectiveness with the inspired leadership of the right individual. The incoming ED, in partnership with Board and staff leadership, will be focused on long-range planning, strengthening and diversifying fundraising efforts, and growing the capacity of the organization. The ED is also the public face of the organization and is instrumental in recruiting new volunteers, tutors, donors, board members, and community partners.

The new ED must have proven, significant, and successful organizational development, fundraising, and nonprofit leadership experience, the ability to oversee day-to-day operations, and the skill to work collaboratively with the board to guide the organization. The ED must also possess the talent to communicate effectively and build relationships with multiple constituencies, including the board, staff, donors, government officials and community leaders.

Organizational Priorities

The Board of Directors of the Literacy Council of Buncombe County has identified the following as the highest priorities for the new executive, the board, and the staff over the next 12 to 18 months:

• Conduct a financial sustainability assessment
• Develop a 3-5 year strategic plan for growth
• Continue to diversify fundraising efforts
• Improve engagement and effectiveness of the board
• Maintain the high level of organizational culture

Ongoing Responsibilities

• Vision, Mission, and Strategies – Work closely with the board and staff to translate the Literacy Council’s mission and vision into clear strategic directions, goals, and initiatives.
• Accomplishment of Management Objectives – Oversee operational and program objectives that support the organization’s strategic goals and lead the staff in their implementation.
• Fund Raising and Resource Development – In partnership with the board and staff, develop and implement appropriate and diversified fund-raising and financial development strategies.
• Fiscal Management – Ensure that solid planning and budgeting systems continue so that income is managed wisely and that the organization’s goals serve as the basis for sound financial planning. Ensure that systems and staff are in place to accurately monitor, assess, and manage the financial health of the organization.
• Human Resources Management – Foster and maintain a strong staff built on teamwork and collaborative decision-making in a positive and empowering environment. Oversee staff development activities that build leadership skills and motivate performance. Ensure adherence to the personnel policies in all hiring and employment practices.
• External Liaison and Public Image – Serve as primary spokesperson and public face for the Literacy Council, representing it locally and regionally. Develop dynamic working relationships with diverse constituencies, including government, education and nonprofit groups that support the work of the Literacy Council.

Required Qualifications

• A history of leadership or management success in the nonprofit sector
• Strong fundraising and relationship building skills with proven experience in foundation, government, corporate and individual giving
• A high degree of financial literacy and management experience
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal and public speaking skills, and experience with diverse populations and multiple constituencies
• Collaborative leader with an exceptional ability to foster a spirit of cooperation with external partners and among board members and staff
• Demonstrated ability to work with and facilitate strong board development and leadership
• An innovative problem solver, flexible, and capable of adapting to changing priorities
• A visionary leader with strong strategic thinking, organizational development, and planning skills
• Strong organizational skills
• A working knowledge of office technology including Microsoft Office suites, Quick Books, Gmail suite, and other technology-based systems
• A demonstrated commitment to a strong culture of teamwork and staff development
• A selfless and inclusive leader with a bias for action

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in human services, childhood or adult literacy, or nonprofit organization leadership
• Leadership and coordination of a volunteer, service-based workforce
• Program evaluation experience
• Marketing and PR experience
• Experience in working with diverse communities and cultures
• Bilingual skills
• Bachelor’s Degree or higher

Compensation

The salary for this full-time position is $55,000.  The Literacy Council offers a flexible work environment and a generous time-off package.

Application Process

To apply, please send a letter of interest, resume, and salary history via email only to: edsearch@litcouncil.com. Please, no phone calls.

Submissions have now closed.  August 18, 2019

Download Position Description PDF

The Literacy Council of Buncombe County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to recruiting a diverse pool of qualified candidates for the position.

Are you looking for the opportunity to make a difference? The Literacy Council has an exciting opportunity to join our team for a year! Apply today to become the Literacy Council’s next Recruitment and Awareness Coordinator through AmeriCorps. Please follow the link below to fill out your application.

Join AmeriCorps and “get things done”! Become a NC LiteracyCorps member at the Literacy Council of Buncombe County and improve literacy and English language skills in our community.

The Literacy Council of Buncombe County will host one full-time NC LiteracyCorps (an AmeriCorps Project) member beginning September 2019. The application period is now open and closes August 1.