Become the

Executive Director, LORE

Who is LORE?

LORE (Leaders for Ozarks Region Evolvement) is a newly established, private sector-led nonprofit committed to advancing regionalism across Southwest Missouri. LORE brings together visionary leaders from across the public and private sectors to collaboratively strengthen the region’s identity, grow a competitive workforce, and enhance quality of life.

Our mission is to unify and elevate the Ozarks region by driving strategic initiatives that foster long-term prosperity and connection.

Position Summary

LORE is seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and relationship-driven Executive Director to launch and lead the organization during this exciting phase of development. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be responsible for building the organization’s presence and impact across the region, growing and engaging a strong membership base, and driving core initiatives in regional identity, workforce attraction, and quality of life.

This is a high-visibility role requiring a collaborative leader who can communicate effectively across diverse audiences, develop meaningful partnerships, and represent LORE at the highest levels.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

Serve as the primary ambassador and spokesperson for LORE across the region.
Work closely with the Board of Directors to develop and execute a strategic plan aligned with the organization’s mission and early initiatives.• Build a strong, mission-aligned culture focused on collaboration, accountability, and results.
Oversee and participate in day-to-day operations of the organization, including administration, assuring financial management, budgeting, reporting, and auditing the financials.
Other duties as assigned.

Membership & Stakeholder Engagement

Grow and engage a diverse, regionally representative membership base of private sector leaders and community partners.
Cultivate relationships with local governments, economic development groups, employers, educational institutions, and civic organizations.

Communicate regularly with members to keep them informed, engaged, and inspired by LORE’s progress.

Organizational Growth

Plan for and lead the future growth of the organization, including hiring and managing staff as capacity expands.
Identify and pursue funding opportunities as needed (grants, partnerships, sponsorships) to support LORE’s initiatives.

Initiative Management

Lead the development and execution of LORE’s inaugural focus areas:
Regional Identity
Workforce Attraction
Quality of Life
Convene and collaborate with stakeholders to define success metrics, timelines, and deliverables for each initiative.

Communications & Advocacy

Serve as the public face of LORE, representing the organization at events, media opportunities, and regional discussions.
Develop clear, compelling messaging that communicates the importance and impact of regionalism.

Foster partnerships and collaborative opportunities across sector lines.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in nonprofit, public policy, economic development, business, or related sectors.

• Demonstrated ability to convene and build trust among diverse leaders and communities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable presenting to small groups and large audiences.

• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute and adapt in a startup-like environment.

• Experience managing projects, budgets, and stakeholder relationships.

• Knowledge of Southwest Missouri’s communities, challenges, and opportunities preferred.

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience in public administration, business, communications, or related fields preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Competitive benefits package and PTO

Apply

To apply for the Executive Director position, please submit your cover letter and resume to efactory.