Executive Director - CATCH

Executive Director

CATCH (Caring Athletes Team for Children’s and Henry Ford Hospitals) Detroit, Michigan

CATCH has partnered with Mondo Unlimited to recruit a dynamic and relationship-driven Executive Director to lead one of Detroit’s most recognizable charitable organizations supporting pediatric patients and families. Founded in 1987 by Hall of Fame manager Sparky Anderson, CATCH has built a strong legacy rooted in community, sports, and philanthropy.

The Executive Director will serve as the organization’s senior leader, responsible for advancing its mission through strategic fundraising, donor engagement, and operational leadership. Working in close partnership with the Executive Vice President of Philanthropy at Henry Ford Health and the CATCH Board of Trustees, this leader will steward and grow a deeply established network of donors, sponsors, and community partners.

This is a highly external, relationship-centered role. Success will be defined by the ability to cultivate meaningful connections, elevate CATCH’s visibility, and drive revenue through signature events and donor engagement while also leading a lean organization with a hands-on, entrepreneurial approach.

Organizational Context & Opportunity

CATCH operates with a small, dedicated team and a highly engaged executive committee and Board, delivering outsized impact through signature fundraising events and longstanding community relationships. The organization is well-positioned for its next phase of growth.

The next Executive Director will have the opportunity to:

• Build upon a strong legacy brand with deep ties to Detroit’s sports and philanthropic communities
  

• Expand and diversify donor and sponsorship relationships
  

• Strengthen storytelling and visibility to amplify impact
  

• Modernize systems and infrastructure, particularly fundraising tools and donor data management
  

• Enhance operational efficiency while preserving the organization’s personal, relationship-driven culture
  

Key Leadership Priorities

Fundraising & Relationship Development

• Serve as the primary ambassador and relationship manager for CATCH’s major donors, sponsors, and corporate partners
  

• Drive a comprehensive, relationship-based fundraising strategy
  

• Expand and deepen donor engagement while identifying new revenue opportunities
  

• Personally engage in cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of key supporters
  

Signature Events & Revenue Generation

• Provide leadership for CATCH’s hallmark fundraising events, including the Golf Outing and Night of Champions
  

• Ensure events deliver both exceptional experiences and strong financial performance
  

• Leverage events as platforms for relationship-building and brand elevation
  

Communications, Visibility & Brand Stewardship

• Serve as the public face and spokesperson for CATCH
  

• Elevate the organization’s storytelling to more effectively communicate mission and impact
  

• Strengthen visibility across media, digital platforms, and community engagement opportunities
  

• Honor and build upon CATCH’s legacy and reputation within the Detroit community
  

Operational & Organizational Leadership

• Lead day-to-day operations with a high degree of ownership in a lean team environment
  

• Partner with the Board of Trustees to support governance, planning, and organizational effectiveness
  

• Oversee financial management, budgeting, and compliance in collaboration with external partners and Board committees
  

• Identify and implement improvements to systems, processes, and infrastructure
  

Systems Modernization & Growth

• Advance the organization’s use of fundraising tools, donor databases, and reporting systems
  

• Improve data-informed decision-making and operational efficiency
  

• Position the organization for long-term sustainability and growth
  

Candidate Profile

CATCH seeks a leader who combines strong relationship instincts with executional excellence. The ideal candidate will bring a proven ability to engage donors and sponsors, lead high-impact events, and operate effectively in a small, collaborative environment.

Core Experience & Capabilities

• Demonstrated success in fundraising, sponsorship development, or revenue generation
  

• Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
  

• Experience leading or supporting high-profile events or event-driven organizations
  

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with strength in storytelling and public presence
  

• Ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a lean organizational setting
  

• Financial and operational acumen, including budgeting and oversight
  

Preferred Background & Attributes

• Experience in nonprofit, sports, entertainment, or community-based organizations
  

• Comfort with and interest in strengthening systems, tools, and data infrastructure
  

• Familiarity with working alongside a Board of Directors or Trustees
  

• Deep appreciation for CATCH’s history, mission, and connection to the Detroit community
  

• Entrepreneurial mindset with a willingness to take initiative and drive results
  

Nonprofit executive leadership experience is welcome but not required for candidates who demonstrate strength in fundraising, relationships, and event leadership.

Compensation & Structure

• Competitive compensation, commensurate with experience
  

• Full-time position based in Detroit, Michigan
  

• Reports to the Executive Vice President of Philanthropy at Henry Ford Health and partners closely with the CATCH Board of Trustees
  

• Requires flexibility for evening and weekend events and donor engagement