Job Description

OPPORTUNITY

McCrossan Boys Ranch seeks a passionate and mission-driven leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Building on more than six decades of service to at-risk youth, McCrossan is a well-respected residential program and working ranch that supports boys through structure, education, vocational skills, and compassionate care.

With the planned retirement of its longtime Executive Director, McCrossan is poised for a new chapter of visionary leadership. The next Executive Director will lead a dedicated staff, steward a strong community reputation and significant donor base, and build upon McCrossan’s legacy of offering hope and second chances to boys and their families.

This is a rare opportunity to guide a thriving organization with deep community roots and a unique mission in youth development.

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND      

Founded in 1955, McCrossan Boys Ranch provides a structured, supportive home for boys ages 9 to 20 who are struggling with life’s challenges. Located on a scenic 110-acre working ranch in northwest Sioux Falls, McCrossan serves boys through a combination of residential care, education, counseling, vocational training, and character development.

At the heart of the McCrossan model is the belief that every child deserves a second chance. Youth come to the Ranch through the Department of Social Services, school districts in South Dakota, private placements or juvenile court services. Here, they receive not just shelter and safety—but tools to thrive, including:

• Accredited on-site education through the McCrossan School
• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Equine-assisted programs and horsemanship training
• Vocational training and employment partnerships
• A dedicated team of youth care professionals, clinicians, teachers, and support staff

McCrossan is licensed by the South Dakota Department of Social Services and accredited by the Council on Accreditation, operating with a budget of $7.5 million and a staff of 70+.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of McCrossan Boys Ranch and reports to the Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for advancing the mission, vision, and values of the organization and oversees all aspects of operations, staff management, and external relations. Key duties include:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic & Organizational Leadership

• Provide visionary leadership aligned with McCrossan’s mission and history
• Implement and refine strategic plans in collaboration with the board and leadership team
• Ensure ongoing programmatic and operational excellence across all areas

Staff & Program Management

• Lead, mentor, and support a capable and dedicated team of professionals
• Uphold a trauma-informed, youth-centered approach to care
• Ensure staff training, supervision, and development aligns with best practices and licensure standards

Financial Stewardship & Fundraising

• Oversee an annual budget of approximately $7.5 million
• Maintain strong financial controls and transparent reporting
• Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners to support fundraising efforts

External Relations & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the organization
• Foster relationships with local and state agencies, referral partners, and supporters
• Represent McCrossan in the broader field of child welfare and youth development

Board Relations & Governance

• Partner closely with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction and ensure sound governance
• Provide timely and transparent communication to the board
• Implement board policies and engage members in meaningful leadership and support

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

McCrossan seeks a compassionate, strategic, and collaborative leader with a deep commitment to youth development. The successful candidate will be a values-based executive with experience in human services, residential care, education, or related fields. Key qualifications include:

Experience & Credentials

• A minimum of 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 3 years in a senior executive or director role
• Background in youth services, residential treatment, education, mental health, or nonprofit management
• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in a relevant field preferred (e.g., social work, public administration, education, nonprofit leadership)

Leadership & Management Skills

• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage complex operations, and build a positive organizational culture
• Experience with budgeting, financial oversight, and program evaluation
• Strong fundraising and donor relations skills, or the capacity to grow into that role

Mission Alignment & Values

• A heart for working with at-risk youth and a passion for creating life-changing opportunities
• Commitment to trauma-informed care, positive youth development, and racial and cultural equity
• Authentic, approachable, and grounded leadership style

EDUCATION

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience in behavioral science, public administration, nonprofit management, or related fields.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• The Executive Director will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A competitive compensation package will be offered, including salary ($150-170K), health benefits, and retirement contributions. 

APPLICATION

On behalf of the McCrossan Boys Ranch this search is being led by the consulting firm, GSB Fundraising. To apply applicants may send resumes and supporting documentation for consideration to: Moilan@gsbfr.comor reach out to one of our team members below.