In the world of nonprofit leadership, the Executive Director stands as the organization’s backbone—balancing mission-driven work with real-world management. While passion fuels the purpose, the executive director salary reflects the scope and complexity of leading people, programs, and budgets. For those eager to rise into these pivotal roles, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) online offers the flexibility and advanced training to master governance, finance, and strategy—all essential tools for creating sustainable community impact.
What is a nonprofit executive director?
A nonprofit executive—often titled Executive Director or CEO—is the senior leader charged with executing the mission and strategy of a nonprofit organization. They work closely with the nonprofit’s board to translate its vision into actionable goals, oversee program and operational management, lead fundraising and public relations efforts, and ensure the organization stays within budget and regulatory compliance. Nonprofit executives play pivotal roles in nonprofit leadership by frequently representing the organization in the community, maintaining accountability to both stakeholders and funders as well as serving the organization’s constituents.
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Find Out MoreNonprofit leadership and executive director salaries
Compensation for executive directors of nonprofits varies widely, influenced by factors like organization size, location, and sector. According to Indeed, nonprofit executive directors in Los Angeles make an average of $138,594 per year. In the U.S. Executive Directors salaries vary, but can earn upwards of $125,000 at larger nonprofit organizations according to Indeed.In addition to paid positions, USC alumni often hold volunteer leadership positions as nonprofit board members. Nonprofit associations like the National Council of Nonprofits emphasize that nonprofit board responsibility includes determining reasonable compensation via market-based comparisons—balancing nonprofit director compensation to attract and retain qualified leadership without appearing excessive. Ultimately, compensation reflects nonprofit leadership responsibilities, nonprofit board oversight, and comparisons with both comparable nonprofits and for-profit roles in similar communities.
How does the USC Price MPA Online prepare you?
Leslie Best, a graduate of USC’s online MPA, brought her technical background as an engineer into the nonprofit world, where she now thrives as a consultant and board member.
Drawn to the MPA program for its nonprofit management and public policy focus, Best was particularly inspired by a course on nonprofit financial management. “That’s when I said, ‘Oh, this is it,’” she recalled. The course not only confirmed her interest in the sector but also equipped her with the foundational skills needed to serve effectively on nonprofit boards.
Today, Best serves on multiple nonprofit boards, leveraging her MPA training to guide organizations through strategic decision-making and financial oversight. She emphasized how the program helped her understand governance responsibilities and build the confidence needed to contribute meaningfully. “It gave me the tools to know what I’m looking at and what questions to ask,” she said. Whether advising on budget planning or mission alignment, Best continues to apply lessons from the MPA Online curriculum to help nonprofits strengthen their impact and sustainability.
