According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nonprofit organizations employed 6.5% of the U.S. workforce in 2022. A significant number of these professionals worked in education and health services. These sectors demand higher levels of formal education than other industries, reflecting the unique challenges of managing nonprofit organizations.
The University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Nonprofit Management helps professionals advance in these vital roles. This degree equips graduates with the skills to pursue careers in nonprofit management, including program director, nonprofit CEO, executive director, social services manager, fundraising manager, philanthropy manager, and director of communications. The following is a deeper look at these seven positions and their responsibilities.
1. Program Director
Program directors oversee outreach and service programs that align with the nonprofit’s mission. They manage teams, budgets, and the strategic planning necessary to ensure that programs meet their objectives and comply with legal regulations.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a program director is approximately $65,957 per year. This role requires a blend of leadership, budgeting, and operational skills, making an MBA in Nonprofit Management a valuable asset for those looking to enter this field.
2. Nonprofit CEO
A nonprofit CEO provides overall leadership and strategic direction for the organization. This position involves working closely with the board of directors, managing high-level fundraising efforts, and representing the organization publicly. The CEO must ensure the nonprofit remains mission-focused while meeting its financial and operational goals.
Indeed reports that the median annual salary for nonprofit CEOs as $136,754. UMSV’s MBA in Nonprofit Management offers the leadership training necessary to succeed in this demanding role, where strategic vision and stakeholder management are critical.
3. Executive Director
While the nonprofit CEO focuses on long-term strategy, the executive director manages day-to-day operations. This role involves collaborating with the board, managing public relations, and spearheading fundraising activities. Executive directors must balance operational management with mission alignment, making their role indispensable in nonprofits.
Indeed lists the average salary for executive directors at $87,283 annually. Those with an MBA in Nonprofit Management gain the operational and leadership skills needed to thrive in this vital position.
4. Social Services Manager
Social services managers oversee programs aimed at helping individuals in need such as housing, healthcare, or education services. They manage staff, develop programs, and ensure their services comply with regulatory standards.
The BLS notes that social services managers earned a median salary of $77,030 in 2023. This role requires a deep understanding of community needs, combined with the ability to manage resources and lead a team—skills that UMSV’s MBA in Nonprofit Management sharpens.
5. Fundraising Manager
Fundraising managers play a crucial role in maintaining the financial health of a nonprofit. They are responsible for developing strategies to secure donations, organizing fundraising events, and maintaining relationships with donors. As Forbes explains, fundraising managers play a crucial role in meeting financial goals, which sustains the nonprofit’s mission.
On average, fundraising managers earn $56,013 annually, according to Indeed. An MBA in Nonprofit Management provides the strategic fundraising and relationship-building skills necessary to excel in this career.
6. Philanthropy Manager
Philanthropy managers focus on securing large donations from corporations, foundations, and individual donors. Their role involves developing long-term relationships with major contributors, overseeing grant-writing activities, and ensuring the nonprofit meets its financial goals.
Indeed reports that philanthropy managers earn an average salary of $66,075 annually. This role is particularly important as nonprofits increasingly rely on large-scale donors to fund their operations. A degree in nonprofit management equips philanthropy managers with the skills to cultivate meaningful donor relationships and achieve fundraising success.
7. Director of Communications
The director of communications manages the public image and communication strategies of a nonprofit organization. This role involves overseeing public relations efforts, marketing campaigns, and media outreach to ensure the nonprofit’s mission is effectively communicated to the public, donors, and stakeholders.
Per Indeed, they earn an average salary of $82,723 per year. An MBA in Nonprofit Management helps professionals develop the strategic communication skills necessary for success in this role, particularly in an increasingly digital world.
Equipped for Success
An MBA in Nonprofit Management equips graduates with leadership, strategic planning, and fundraising expertise that are crucial for the success of any nonprofit. These seven career paths illustrate the diverse opportunities available in the sector—each offering competitive salaries and opportunities for career advancement. Whether managing programs, fundraising efforts, or public relations, professionals with a nonprofit management degree have the tools needed to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.
Learn more about the University of Mount Saint Vincent’s online MBA in Nonprofit Management program.
