Job Description

Executive Director

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association

Los Angeles, California

The Moran Company is pleased to partner with the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association to conduct a national search for the organization’s next Executive Director.

About LAFRA

Founded in 1906, the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association (LAFRA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the members of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) and their families. LAFRA provides comprehensive services, including medical plans, financial assistance, and the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. The organization is rooted in compassion, trust, and service to those who risk their lives for others.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) is the chief administrative leader of LAFRA, responsible for strategic leadership, financial stewardship, operational oversight, and cultivating a high-performing, mission-aligned team. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the ED will guide the organization through a period of operational refinement and cultural alignment, while ensuring exceptional delivery of services to members and their families.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Organizational Culture

• Develop and implement a clear strategic vision for LAFRA’s future, balancing tradition with innovation.
• Serve as a bridge between staff and the Board, advocating for fairness, transparency, and collaboration.
• Foster a positive, inclusive work culture with accountability, equity, and respect at the center.
• Mentor, empower, and coach department leaders while maintaining open lines of communication across all levels.

Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency, policy compliance, and effective delegation.
• Ensure fiscal responsibility and financial stability in collaboration with the Controller-Treasurer and Investment Committee.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and reporting, and be engaged in investment and endowment strategies.
• Evaluate operational performance and implement process improvements to support sustainable growth.

Program Oversight

• Oversee administration of LAFRA’s medical plan, relief benefits, and scholarships, ensuring member satisfaction.
• Ensure program delivery aligns with LAFRA’s mission and remains legally and ethically compliant.
• Monitor member needs and adjust services accordingly.

People & HR Leadership

• Lead a staff-centered culture that values respect and professional development.
• Address staff needs with fairness, consistency, and a commitment to team morale.
• Establish clear HR practices that promote accountability, performance, and transparency.

Governance & Board Relations

• Partner with the Board to advance the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
• Clearly define roles between Board governance and operational execution.
• Proactively address communication gaps between Trustees and staff.

Priority Qualifications

• Staff supervision, team leadership, and organizational management.
• Proven nonprofit or public service leadership experience.
• Transparent, high-integrity, mission-focused leadership.
• Strong financial knowledge, including investment, budgeting, and planning.
• Experience in healthcare, benefits, or pension program administration.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance and organizational policy management.

Additional desirable qualities include:

• Strong interpersonal communication and diplomacy skills.
• Ability to balance operational execution with big-picture strategic thinking.
• Demonstrated skill in navigating complex Board and stakeholder relationships.
• A calm, composed leadership presence with emotional intelligence and maturity.

Key Challenges for the Incoming Executive Director

• Leading strategic planning and visioning for the next chapter of LAFRA.
• Recruiting and retaining top talent, and boosting internal morale.
• Enhancing operational efficiency across departments.
• Building alignment between the Board and staff while promoting staff advocacy.
• Supporting LAFRA’s financial future through investment knowledge and sustainable practices.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $250,000 - $275,000 based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and paid leave.
• A mission-driven and supportive working environment.

Application Process

Submit a cover letter and resume to John Gravley, The Moran Company. The resume should be chronological and include all professional education and experience, dates of employment (month and year), position/title, and organization names.

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