Summary
Description
Reports To: Board President
Location: Hybrid | Based in Colorado's Front Range (coworking membership provided). Occasional evening and weekend availability is required to support board meetings, member events, and community programming.
Start Date: January 4, 2027
Job Category: Full-time, salaried, exempt
Compensation Range: $75,000-$90,000, plus bonus eligibility
Benefits & Community Perks: $500/month health insurance stipend, 15 days of PTO, 6 sick days, and paid federal holidays. Additional benefits include a $1,500 annual professional development stipend, and a monthly food & beverage stipend.
About EatDenver
EatDenver is a nonprofit (501c6) membership organization created to unite and strengthen Colorado's independent hospitality community. Rooted in the belief that a rising tide lifts all boats, we were founded in 2006 by local restaurateurs focused on collaboration. Today, we’re a vibrant collective of over 450 restaurants, food trucks, and cafés, all working together to strengthen Denver’s hospitality scene through advocacy, education, and shared resources.
The Opportunity
We're looking for a collaborative, entrepreneurial leader who is passionate about independent restaurants and the future of Colorado hospitality. As Executive Director, you'll serve as the face of EatDenver, building relationships, growing partnerships, leading fundraising efforts, and overseeing the organization's operations.
You'll be part of a lean, two-person team, so we're looking for someone who enjoys wearing many hats. Success in this role requires curiosity, adaptability, strong financial and organizational skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships across our members, partners, and broader hospitality community.
What You'll Do
Organizational Leadership
-
Lead the day-to-day operations of EatDenver and execute the organization's strategic priorities.
-
Partner closely with the Board of Directors and committee leaders to establish and support annual goals.
-
Supervise and support the Membership & Partnership Manager.
-
Foster a collaborative, mission-driven organizational culture.
Community & Partnership Development
-
Drive development and fundraising in collaboration with the Partnership Manager, leveraging the Board as needed.
-
Build meaningful relationships with members, sponsors, donors, government partners, and community organizations.
-
Develop sponsorships, partnerships, and fundraising opportunities that support EatDenver's long-term sustainability.
-
Represent EatDenver throughout Colorado's hospitality community at events, meetings, and public forums.
Membership, Programs & Communications
-
Oversee member engagement, recruitment, retention, and communications.
-
Lead the strategy and execution of educational programming, networking opportunities, and signature events.
-
Guide EatDenver's marketing, newsletters, website, and social media presence to keep members informed and engaged.
Financial & Operational Management
-
Develop and manage the annual operating budget in partnership with the Treasurer and Board.
-
Oversee bookkeeping, payroll, invoicing, financial reporting, and event budgets.
-
Ensure organizational compliance with nonprofit reporting and financial requirements.
Advocacy
-
Stay informed on issues impacting Colorado's hospitality industry.
-
Serve as a liaison with government officials, industry partners, and advocacy organizations.
-
Help advance policies and initiatives that support independent restaurants and small businesses.
Who You Are
You're energized by building relationships, bringing people together, and making an impact. You enjoy variety, embrace change, are willing to learn, and jump into whatever the day requires.
We're looking for someone who brings:
-
Leadership experience in nonprofit, hospitality, small business, or a related industry
-
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
-
Financial acumen, including budgeting and organizational planning
-
Experience with fundraising, sponsorships, or business development
-
Exceptional organization, project management, and follow-through
-
The ability to work independently while collaborating with a volunteer Board
-
A genuine passion for supporting Colorado’s independent hospitality scene, paired with a curious and adaptable mindset
-
Restaurant or hospitality leadership experience
-
Experience managing staff or volunteers
-
Familiarity with QuickBooks, Squarespace, WildApricot, Mailchimp, Canva, or similar platforms
A quick note: While this covers the main parts of the job, we stay flexible. This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications.
Equal Employment Opportunity
EatDenver is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
How to Apply
Please send a resume, cover letter, and 3 professional references to kristen@eatdenver.com with the subject line “Application for Executive Director – [Your Full Name]”.
