Director of Operations

Seeking a people-focused operations leader with a passion for developing strong teams, strengthening processes, and driving a culture of continuous improvement within our growing, employee-owned manufacturing business!

ABOUT MELTON MACHINE

100% employee-owned since 1985, Melton Machine & Control Company (“Melton”) is built on a culture of shared ownership, accountability, and pride in delivering exceptional results. More than an ownership structure, Melton’s employee-owned mindset shapes how its people approach their work, collaborate across teams, solve problems, and serve customers. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Washington, Missouri, Melton is a leading designer, builder, and integrator of custom industrial automation systems, specializing in robotic welding, advanced manufacturing equipment, and turnkey automation solutions. With more than 55 years of experience, Melton partners with manufacturers across diverse industries to solve complex production challenges, improve efficiency, and enhance quality and productivity.

Operating from a 365,000-square-foot facility in Washington, Missouri, Melton brings together deep engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a customer-centric approach to deliver highly customized automation solutions. Its capabilities span robotic and automated welding, assembly automation, tooling and fixtures, material handling, inspection and testing, and custom-engineered equipment. Supported by a team of talented engineers, Melton combines technical innovation with hands-on problem-solving and disciplined project execution to serve customers around the world. As the company continues to expand its capabilities and diversify the markets it serves, Melton remains committed to an employee-owned culture where individuals think and act like owners, take pride in their craftsmanship, and share responsibility for the company’s long-term success. Learn more at www.meltonmachine.com.

Reporting to Melton’s VP of Operations, our Director of Operations will serve as a key leader of Melton’s Engineering and Manufacturing Departments. Partnering closely with engineering, manufacturing, sales, finance and executive leadership, this role will help develop standardized management systems, improve cross functional collaboration, and strengthen organizational capability to support consistent project execution. Ideal candidates bring experience with custom manufacturing, industrial automation, and/or capital equipment.

YOUR ROLE AS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

• PROVIDE ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP – Lead mechanical engineering, controls engineering and manufacturing departments to ensure the successful execution of customer projects while driving collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement throughout the department. This integrator will lead with a people-centric mindset, a forward-thinking mentality and a broad base of lean manufacturing and operational experiences to take current capabilities to the next level. You will serve as a cross functional partner to enable Melton to scale, improve consistency across departments and develop future leadership.

• LEAD MANUFACTURING & OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE – Champion the continued evolution of Melton’s manufacturing and operational excellence programs, building scalable systems and processes that drive efficiency, consistency, accountability and performance across the organization. Strengthen operational discipline through the development and implementation of Daily Management Systems (DMS), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and continuous improvement initiatives that drive measurable results. Leverage lean manufacturing principles and Theory of Constraints to identify bottlenecks, optimize workflows and improve overall operational performance. Enhance manufacturing processes, technology and business systems to improve visibility, streamline operations and support sustainable growth. Develop workforce capabilities while fostering a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence and shared ownership of results.

• DRIVE SAFETY, QUALITY + CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT – Provide leadership and accountability for the systems and processes that ensure every customer project meets Melton’s standards for safety, quality and operational readiness. Develop consistent practices across engineering and manufacturing to proactively identify risks, validate performance and ensure products are complete, thoroughly tested and ready for successful customer delivery. Champion a culture of continuous improvement by leveraging project outcomes, customer feedback and lessons learned to strengthen processes, improve execution and drive greater consistency and accountability across the organization.

• LEAD + MENTOR A HIGH PERFORMING TEAM – Lead, mentor and develop a team of three senior leaders with oversight for 50-80 team members. Foster a people-centric culture that emphasizes safety, ownership, collaboration, continuous improvement and operational discipline. Build organizational capability through intentional workforce planning, leadership coaching, employee development and meaningful career progression. Establish structured leadership development and succession planning processes, including High Potential Employee (HPE) development programs and Individual Development Plans (IDPs), to identify emerging talent, strengthen management effectiveness and prepare future leaders to support Melton’s continued growth and long-term success.

IS THIS A MATCH FOR YOU?

• You excel in an entrepreneurial environment and bring a passion for growing and scaling businesses. You consider yourself to be a student of lean manufacturing and a people-first leader.

• You have gained 5-10+ years of progressive manufacturing and operations leadership. You bring a demonstrated record of success in growing people, products and processes and a strong knowledge of lean philosophies and continuous improvement methodologies.

• You have prior experience in custom manufacturing, industrial automation, and/or capital equipment.

• You bring strong people leadership skills with a healthy dose of emotional intelligence. Your experience must include 5+ years of people leadership of manager- level talent with the desire and ability to inspire and motivate, manage conflict, and foster a healthy organizational culture rooted in collaboration and high expectations.

• You bring prior responsibility and oversight for delivery of safe, complete, and high-quality customer solutions. Direct oversight for a quality/safety function and A3 certification a plus!

• You are well-versed in proactively communicating in a clear and transparent manner with stakeholders at all levels. You confidently interact at all levels and react with diplomacy and tact.

• You are willing and able to flex between strategic and tactical priorities required, serving as a hands-on leader as necessary. Superior people and project management skills and proactive mindset required.

• You have developed a solid business and financial acumen and have experience contributing to operational financial performance through budget management, cost control, or direct collaboration with leaders accountable for business profitability.

• Your experience includes strong technical competencies across all relevant software and platforms. You are proficient in Microsoft Applications and have solid experience with ERP and CRM systems. Familiarity with Epicor ERP a plus.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, is required.

WHY JOIN US?

AN EMPLOYEE-OWNED COMPANY = COMMITTED & ENGAGED EMPLOYEES – Employees benefit from ESOPs. When employees have a stake in the company’s performance and profits, they are likely to be motivated to go above and beyond for the company. Employees feel an increased responsibility toward the company which motivates them to be more engaged and committed to their company’s success.

LONG-TERM ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT – Make a visible impact and help lead the next chapter of growth for Melton. Partner with leadership in driving actionable recommendations on both strategy and operations to develop and implement best practices and continuous improvement for sustainable future growth.

WORK LOCATION / RELOCATION / TRAVEL

This position requires a consistent in person presence at our primary office location in Washington, Missouri. Ability and willingness to travel as needed on a limited basis may be required. Travel outside of the local area is estimated at less than 10%. Relocation stipend available and immediate relocation will be desired.

COMPENSATION + BENEFITS

Melton is pleased to offer a competitive base salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, life insurance, STD and LTD, paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, 401K plan, professional development and ESOP contribution. In alignment with its entrepreneurial values, Melton offers a generous bonus opportunity tied to personal and company performance. Placement within the compensation range will reflect the selected candidate’s experience and qualifications and Melton’s compensation benchmarking.

READY TO APPLY?

Take the next step and complete the interest form on this page to share your resume with Occhio Search & Recruitment.  All resumes, referrals and general inquiries will be held strictly confidential. 

For questions, contact Elly Richards [elly@occhiosearch.com] or Angie Akerman [angie@occhiosearch.com].

No direct inquiries with Melton Machine, please.

Melton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes differences in form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and veteran status. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply and we look forward to hearing from you!

Ingredient Sales & Business Development Representative

Seeking a curious, entrepreneurial sales professional to grow existing relationships, uncover new opportunities, and turn prospects into long-term customers!

ABOUT NIKKEN FOODS USA

Nikken Foods USA, Inc. (“Nikken”) is a global specialty food ingredient company focused on helping food manufacturers create better-tasting products through high-quality, natural ingredients and technical expertise.

For more than 60 years, Nikken has developed and manufactured specialty ingredients used by food manufacturers around the world. Our portfolio includes natural ingredients that provide umami, flavor enhancement, clean-label solutions, and authentic food characteristics.

In partnership with food manufacturers, product development, and R&D teams, Nikken’s team consults on ingredient recommendations and formulation assistance, providing samples for test use in snacks, sauces, seasonings, soups, marinades, gravies, and more.

Nikken Foods USA is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, where our sales team works alongside other professional and technical teams to help customers solve formulation challenges and develop better products. Nikken’s core product line offers all-natural soy sauce powders, mushroom and vegetable extracts, seafood extracts, fermented ingredients and specialty powders. To learn more, visit www.nikkenfoods.com

THE OPPORTUNITY

Nikken Foods is seeking a motivated, entrepreneurial-minded Sales & Business Development Representative to manage and grow an assigned portfolio of established, revenue-generating customers while also developing prospects and activating accounts with no prior revenue history.

Approximately 50% of the position will focus on growing existing revenue generating accounts, while the remaining 50% will center on developing new business and activating accounts with little to no prior revenue.

Within existing accounts, the representative will identify new projects and applications, expand the use of Nikken products, strengthen relationships across customer organizations, re-engage underdeveloped business, and drive continued revenue growth.

On the new-business side, the representative will research target companies, identify and engage key decision-makers, initiate conversations, qualify opportunities, and maintain consistent follow-up to convert promising prospects into revenue-generating customers.

This is a commercial growth position, not an account-maintenance role. The successful candidate will be expected to create and develop opportunities rather than wait for them to be assigned. The role requires curiosity, creativity, persistence, initiative, strong follow-up, and continuous proactive engagement with customers and prospects.

This is a salaried position and is not commission-based.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Existing Buying Accounts – Approximately 50%

• Manage and grow an assigned portfolio of existing Nikken Foods customers, with accountability for achieving assigned sales growth targets.
• Develop a strong understanding of assigned customers, including their products, markets, manufacturing locations, business units, brands, purchasing patterns, and potential needs.
• Proactively identify and pursue opportunities to grow account revenue by expanding product usage, introducing additional Nikken ingredients, and identifying new applications and projects.
• Research customer organizations to identify and engage additional decision-makers, R&D personnel, chefs, purchasing personnel, technical contacts, and other key influencers.
• Build relationships beyond established Nikken contacts to broaden Nikken Foods’ presence and influence within customer organizations.
• Review purchasing history and account activity to identify growth trends, gaps, declining business, underdeveloped areas, and opportunities to expand Nikken Foods’ business.
• Re-engage declining, inactive, or underdeveloped areas of assigned accounts and develop actions to recover and grow business.
• Identify high-potential accounts and create focused account-development plans that establish growth priorities, target contacts, opportunities, and actions.

Nonbuying Accounts & New Business Development — Approximately 50%

• Develop and nurture Nikken Foods’ existing leads, prospective customers, and zero-revenue accounts.
• Generate new business opportunities through cold calling, targeted email outreach, online research, LinkedIn, networking, and other outbound prospecting activities.
• Research target companies to understand what they make, the markets they serve, potential needs, and where Nikken Foods’ ingredients may provide value.
• Initiate conversations with prospective customers, qualify opportunities, and move promising prospects through the commercial development process.
• Maintain consistent, creative, and persistent follow-up with prospects through longer development cycles.
• Develop a sufficient pipeline of active opportunities to support new-account and revenue-growth objectives.
• Evaluate prospective accounts based on potential business value, strategic fit, and likelihood of commercial development, and prioritize time and resources accordingly.
• Identify and pursue appropriate opportunities in new and adjacent markets, including beverage, pet food, and other applications where Nikken Foods’ capabilities may provide value.

IS THIS A MATCH FOR YOU?

Your Drive, Aptitude, & Sales Foundation – You bring persistence, curiosity, creativity, and personal accountability, along with 2–5 years of sales, account management, customer service, business development, or other customer-facing experience. You ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, learn independently, and enjoy developing your own sales portfolio. While food-sales experience is preferred, what matters most is your ability to learn quickly, build trust, and create momentum without waiting to be directed.

Your Account Prioritization & Follow-Through – You can manage and organize varied account portfolios, balance competing demands, and recognize where your time and attention can create the greatest value. You stay responsive and organized, maintain consistent follow-through amid longer sales cycles, and work independently while remaining connected to a collaborative team.

Your Communication & Interest in Food – You are comfortable initiating conversations by phone, email, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom and skilled at asking questions that uncover customer needs. You bring a genuine interest in food science, ingredients, flavor, &/or nutrition and are excited to develop technical knowledge. Related experience/internships in food ingredients, food manufacturing or related field is strongly preferred.

Your Collaboration & Team Engagement – You are energized by partnering closely with cross-functional and peer-led teams, including sales, marketing, regulatory, customer service, and management, to advance opportunities and support shared goals. You enjoy openly sharing your sales activity, successful approaches, challenges, and new business wins in a group environment, and you value team discussions as a way to learn from peers, solve problems, and identify additional growth opportunities.

Your Education & Technology Skills – You have a 4-year degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience. You are comfortable using Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Experience with CRM platforms, LinkedIn, mail merge, digital research, and AI-enabled productivity tools is a plus.

WHY JOIN US?

• WORK WITH PRODUCTS THAT SHAPE HOW FOOD TASTES – Work at the intersection of food, flavor, science and customer innovation. Through product tastings, customer projects, and hands-on learning, you will develop expertise in specialty ingredients and discover how they help customers create and improve food products enjoyed across the country. If you’re a foodie at heart, you’ll find plenty to explore, taste, and learn.
• SEE YOUR IDEAS MOVE FROM SAMPLE TO SALE – Uncover and follow opportunities from initial research and conversation through product evaluation, project development, and recurring business. Your curiosity and persistence will have a direct impact on customer success and Nikken’s overall growth.
• APPROACHABLE LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATIVE CULTURE – Become part of a close-knit team where leadership is accessible, questions are welcomed, and employees are encouraged to think outside the box. You will have the independence to develop your accounts while receiving support from an experienced team.
• COMPETITIVE SALARY & COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS – Compensation includes an annual base salary commensurate with experience. Nikken also offers paid employee health insurance including medical, dental, and vision; generous PTO; company contribution to your 401(k)-retirement plan and disability insurance.

WORK LOCATION

Nikken’s US Headquarters is located at 4984 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. This position requires an on-site presence at Nikken’s office five (5) days a week. Occasional travel may be required for customer meetings, industry events, training, or other business needs, but is not expected to exceed 15%. This role involves frequent exposure to food ingredients and common allergens, including eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, wheat, and soybeans. Candidates should be able to work safely in an environment where these allergens are present.

READY TO APPLY? 

Take the next step and complete the interest form on this page to share your resume with Occhio Search & Recruitment.  All resumes, referrals and general inquiries will be held strictly confidential. 

For questions, contact Elly Richards [elly@occhiosearch.com] or Sarah Krueger [sarah@occhiosearch.com].

No direct inquiries with Nikken Foods USA, please.

Nikken Foods USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we welcome differences in form of race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply. We look forward to hearing from you!

Vice President of Advancement

If you are passionate about making a bold impact in STL and bring a track record of success in building sustainable fundraising infrastructure to scale mission-driven organizations, we want to talk with you! 

ABOUT ARCH GRANTS

Arch Grants has been disrupting the status quo in economic development since its inception with a mission to transform the Saint Louis economy – attracting and retaining extraordinary entrepreneurs, one cohort at a time. As a 501(c)(3), Arch Grants is passionate about accelerating place-based economic development via equity-free startup funding. Best known for its global Startup Competition, Arch Grants has now funded 291 companies that have gone on to create 4,000+ jobs, commercialize 7,000+ products, land 300+ patents, attract $894M+ in capital raised, and generate $1.3B+ in revenue.

In addition to non-dilutive cash awards, Arch Grants offers unparalleled resources and structured support, aimed at multiplying the success of its early-stage startups by driving capital, credibility and strategic introductions. Be it connections to accelerator programs, venture capital firms, angel investors, mentors, Arch Grants programming, or even local enterprise customers, the data has shown the majority of founders choose to stay, hire, and reinvest in Saint Louis.

Beyond its startup success stories, Arch Grants has not only proven that the maturation of an ecosystem where bold ideas take root, scale rapidly, and attract national attention is possible, yet also stepped into close collaboration with key ecosystem partners, including local chambers, major universities, ag-tech and geospatial hubs, and other community conveners to attract and retain high-growth startups, high-potential talent, and business opportunity to Saint Louis. Learn more at www.archgrants.org.

ABOUT THIS NEWLY CREATED ROLE

In alignment with its next set of strategic and financial goals, Arch Grants is excited to announce a newly defined position for an experienced Vice President of Advancement. You will help define this role and shape the organization’s next chapter in partnership with a newly hired CEO: a rare opportunity to build rather than inherit.

Leading a team of three direct reports within an organization that manages an annual operating budget of approximately $3.6 million and is supported by an endowment and investment portfolio of approximately $23 million, you will influence the telling of a powerful story that is not yet fully told. Arch Grants has set an ambitious five-year goal of doubling its donor base and growing annual philanthropic revenue to $4–$6 million — and you will architect the strategy to get there. In aligning multi-year commitments with major donors, corporate sponsors, strategic partners, and foundations, you will safeguard the Arch Grants mission and directly impact the Saint Louis region.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• FUND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY + PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP – In partnership with CEO and Board of Directors, you will shape and lead a comprehensive fund development strategy aligned with desired impact and growth goals in Arch Grants’ new strategic plan. As a strategic partner to CEO, you will translate strategy into revenue goals across individual, corporate, and foundation giving to strengthen long-term philanthropic capacity.

• INTERNAL CAPACITY + INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT GROWTH – Establish a sustainable and scalable fund development function, aligning your team with the right portfolio tools, metrics, and goals to deliver diversified, revenue-producing functions. Design and implement an effective moves management process using Salesforce, our development CRM. Identify strategic use of Board and leadership time, relationships, and influence. Recruit talent to maintain grant proposal and reporting responsibilities to build a credible national foundation pipeline.
• DONOR ENGAGEMENT + DIVERSIFICATION – Building upon Arch Grants’ success with major gifts, expand and diversify the individual donor base, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement and crafting opportunities and outreach for donors at all levels. Ensure a clear path from engagement to solicitation while establishing key metrics to strengthen acquisition, cultivation, and upgrades. Establish clear roles for solicitation and relationship management between staff and board. Lead and oversee the annual event strategy.
• CORPORATE RELATIONS + FOUNDER ENGAGEMENT – Provide strategic direction and tactical leadership for Arch Grants corporate relations and Founder engagement. Diversify base of corporate donors, partnering closely with Arch Grants’ CEO to develop meaningful donor opportunities and strategic partnerships. In collaboration with program leadership, develop and implement best practices for communications and connections to educate Arch Grants’ growing community of founders on what is required to sustain high-quality programming.

IS THIS A MATCH FOR YOU?

• You have a passion for the mission of Arch Grants, including a fundamental belief in the power of an entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster economic growth. You consider yourself a builder of process, products, and people and fundraising strategist who thrives on making the next chapter of an organization’s vision come to life.
• You have gained 8-10+ years of progressive fund development leadership experience including oversight for a team of direct reports and an ability to inspire, manage conflict, and foster a healthy organizational culture.
• Prior experience building and scaling a fund development function and a deep understanding of best practices for effective donor engagement at all levels is a must-have requirement. Oversight for fundraising operations, process development, technology and systems, and donor communications and engagement are key.
• Prior experience managing high-level donors and prospects capable of six- and seven-figure gifts is desired. Prior management of a major donor portfolio is required. Experience with planned giving and endowment strategies also strongly desired.
• Expertise in securing multi-year gifts and/or in developing strategic partnerships across major and mid-sized corporations, national foundations, public and blended capital sources
• Evidence of a data-driven approach to fundraising a must-have.
• You are well-versed in proactively communicating with internal and external stakeholders. You confidently interact with team at all levels and react with diplomacy and tact. You bring experience communicating a vision and prospective road map to key stakeholders and community constituents. Ability to build bridges between like-minded organizations to foster collaboration, drive open communication and cooperative partnerships desired.
• You are willing to serve as a hands-on leader, with the ability and desire to flex between strategic and tactical Superior project management skills, an ability to support organization-wide strategic planning efforts, and a bold, proactive mindset are required.
• You are committed to building an inclusive organizational culture and believe that attracting a wide range of talented entrepreneurs and organizational stakeholders will further our success.
• You have developed a solid business acumen and strong technology skills. Four-year college degree required or equivalent executive leadership experience. MBA or graduate degree, a plus.

WHY JOIN US?

• MAKE A FOREVER IMPACT IN SAINT LOUIS – Become part of a mission that is changing the economic reality and community landscape in the Saint Louis region. Build the leadership fabric of tomorrow in the Saint Louis community.

• OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD – You will lead with the freedom to build and innovate while establishing a scalable model with sustainable infrastructure, best practices, resources and talent for effective fund development.
• WE ARE EVOLVING AS AN ORGANIZATION – As an organization, evolution is at our core. We believe it is critical to achieving our ongoing strategic and economic development goals. We are seeking a leader with a shared vision, along with the drive and fundraising expertise to support Arch Grants on its journey to a next set of critical milestones.

WORK LOCATION

This position requires a consistent presence at our primary office location in downtown Saint Louis, Missouri, which doubles as co-working facility for many of Arch Grants’ founders. Ability and willingness to attend evening events and to travel on a limited basis, if needed, is required. Travel outside the local area is estimated at 10% or less.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

The VP position offers a competitive compensation package, including a base salary commensurate with experience in the range of $150,000.00 to approximately $190,000.00, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life, accident, STD, LTD, paid time off, professional development, and retirement plan with match. Placement within the compensation range will reflect the selected candidate’s experience and qualifications and the Board’s compensation benchmarking.

TO APPLY

Take the next step and complete the interest form on this page to share your resume with Occhio Search & Recruitment. All resumes, referrals and general inquiries will be held strictly confidential. Arch Grants asks that all questions, referrals, and applications be directed to its retained search consultant at Occhio Search.

No direct inquiries with Arch Grants, please.

Arch Grants is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for all applicants. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please let us know. As needed, please contact sarah@occhiosearch.com, angie@occhiosearch.com, or elly@occhiosearch.com.

Arch Grants is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome differences in form of gender, race, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic status, age, political affiliation, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and veteran status. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; we look forward to hearing from you!

Chief Executive Officer

If you bring a track record in fund development, operational leadership, or scaling mission-driven organizations, and a passion for bold regional impact, we invite you to explore the leadership of a not-so-quiet economic revolution here in St. Louis, Missouri!

ABOUT ARCH GRANTS

Arch Grants has been disrupting the status quo in economic development since its inception with a mission to transform the Saint Louis economy – attracting and retaining extraordinary entrepreneurs, one cohort at a time. As a 501(c)(3), Arch Grants is passionate about accelerating place-based economic development via equity-free startup funding. Best known for its global Startup Competition, Arch Grants has now funded 291 companies that have gone on to create 4,000+ jobs, commercialize 7,000+ products, land 300+ patents, attract $894M+ in capital raised, and generate $1.3B+ in revenue.

In addition to non-dilutive cash awards, Arch Grants offers unparalleled resources and structured support, aimed at multiplying the success of its early-stage startups by driving capital, credibility and strategic introductions. Be it connections to accelerator programs, venture capital firms, angel investors, mentors, Arch Grants programming, or even local enterprise customers, the data has shown the majority of founders choose to stay, hire, and reinvest in Saint Louis.

Beyond its startup success stories, Arch Grants has not only proven that the maturation of an ecosystem where bold ideas take root, scale rapidly, and attract national attention is possible, but also stepped into close collaboration with key ecosystem partners, including local chambers, major universities, ag-tech and geospatial hubs, and other community conveners to attract and retain high-growth startups, high-potential talent, and business opportunity to Saint Louis.

In alignment with its next set of strategic and financial goals, Arch Grants is excited to announce its need for a Chief Executive Officer. As Arch Grants’ first-ever CEO, you will help define this role and shape the organization’s next chapter: a rare opportunity to build rather than inherit. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will provide focused strategic leadership across operations, fund development and organizational growth.

Leading a talented team of 8-10 internal employees and an annual operating budget of approximately $3.6 million, with an endowment and investment portfolio of approximately $23 million, Arch Grants’ CEO will safeguard the organization’s mission, align ambitious programming with internal capacity, and maintain operational and financial stability. The CEO will also elevate Arch Grants’ national profile by cultivating donors and strategic partners, diversifying funding sources, and securing multi-year financial commitments that support long-term sustainability.  Learn more at www.archgrants.org.

YOUR MISSION AS CEO

• EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP + MISSION STEWARDSHIP – In close partnership with the Arch Grants Board of Directors, you will drive executive leadership and organizational insight to inform strategic decision making. You will translate strategy into actionable goals and lead focused and accountable execution. You will protect against mission creep, ensuring new programs align with organizational purpose, capabilities and desired impact. You will facilitate Board engagement through timely, transparent communications on all strategic, financial and fiduciary matters.

• FUND DEVELOPMENT + FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY – As a driving force behind the organization’s financial sustainability, you will lead and align key staff, Board members, and stakeholders around a comprehensive development strategy. You will expand and diversify the funding base, encompassing stewardship of major gifts, foundation and corporate relations, planned giving, strategic partners and advancement operations to secure multi-year commitments and endowment growth. Own full P&L responsibility, including budget, forecasting, cash flow, and financial controls to ensure Arch Grants is positioned for desired impact.

• TEAM LEADERSHIP + OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE – Lead, develop and align a talented internal team, ensuring a culture of collaboration, accountability, and recognition. Own the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of Arch Grants’ programs, scaled to capacity and aligned with organizational mission. Own internal ops, technology, data, systems, and all third-party partners to support execution, decision making, and growth. 

• NATIONAL PROFILE: PARTNERSHIPS & EXTERNAL RELATIONS – Serving as chief ambassador, you will elevate brand and visibility, positioning Arch Grants as a national voice on entrepreneurship, economic development and founder attraction. Cultivate meaningful relationships with community and civic leaders, venture networks, corporate partners, and ecosystem colleagues. Serve as the public face of the organization, representing Arch Grants to increase awareness of its model, impact, and role in attracting entrepreneurs and early-stage business to Saint Louis.
• IMPACT + GROWTH – Track economic and community impact through measurement of metrics that matter, reflecting Arch Grants’ role as a catalyst in economic transformation through entrepreneurship and regional retention. Oversee annual reporting, multi-year cohort tracking, founder feedback, and periodic third-party economic impact analysis.

 IS THIS A MATCH FOR YOU?

• You have a passion for the mission of Arch Grants, including a fundamental belief in the power of an entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster economic growth. You consider yourself a builder of process, products, and people and fundraising strategist who thrives on making the next chapter of an organization’s vision come to life.
• You have gained 10-15+ years of progressive senior leadership experience spanning strategy, operations, and resource development, and management of people, processes, programs, and organizational resources. Experience must include no less than 5 years of direct team oversight, including an ability to inspire and motivate, manage conflict, and foster a healthy organizational culture.
• You bring a proven track record in leading transformational fund development initiatives, including an ability to secure multi-year gifts and the strategy to diversify fund sources. Equivalent experience leading strategic growth initiatives in an entrepreneurial, venture, or economic-development context is also welcome. Prior experience managing high-level donors and prospects capable of six- and seven-figure gifts is required. Development of strategic partnerships, foundation and corporate relations, and grant funding also desired. Evidence of a data-driven approach to fundraising a must-have.
• You are well-versed in proactively communicating with internal and external stakeholders. You confidently interact with team at all levels and react with diplomacy and tact. You bring experience communicating a vision and prospective road map to key stakeholders and community constituents. Ability to build bridges between like-minded organizations to foster collaboration, drive open communication and cooperative partnerships desired.
• You are willing to serve as a hands-on leader, with the ability and desire to flex between strategic and tactical Superior project management skills, an ability to support organization-wide strategic planning efforts, and a bold, proactive mindset are required.
• You are committed to building an inclusive organizational culture and believe that attracting a wide range of talented entrepreneurs and organizational stakeholders will further our success.
• You have developed a solid business acumen, prior P&L responsibility and strong technology skills. Four-year college degree required or equivalent executive leadership experience. MBA or graduate degree, a plus.

WHY JOIN US?

• MAKE A FOREVER IMPACT IN SAINT LOUIS – Become part of a mission that is changing the economic reality and community landscape in the Saint Louis region. Build the leadership fabric of tomorrow in the Saint Louis community.

• WE ARE EVOLVING AS AN ORGANIZATION – As an organization, evolution is at our core. We believe it is critical to achieving our ongoing strategic and economic development goals. We are seeking a leader with a shared vision, along with the drive and fundraising expertise to support Arch Grants on its journey to a next set of critical milestones.

WORK LOCATION + TRAVEL + RELOCATION

This position requires a consistent in-person presence at our primary office location in Saint Louis, Missouri. Ability and willingness to attend evening events and to travel as needed on a limited basis is required. Travel outside the local area is estimated at 10%. Relocation stipend available and immediate relocation will be desired.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

The CEO position offers a competitive compensation package, including a base salary commensurate with experience in the range of $190,000.00 to approximately $300,000.00, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including:  medical, dental, vision, life, accident, STD, LTD, paid time off, professional development, and retirement plan with match. Placement within the compensation range will reflect the selected candidate’s experience and qualifications and the Board’s compensation benchmarking.

TO APPLY

Take the next step and complete the interest form on this page to share your resume with Occhio Search & Recruitment. All resumes, referrals and general inquiries will be held strictly confidential. Arch Grants asks that all questions, referrals, and applications be directed to its retained search consultant at Occhio Search.

No direct inquiries with Arch Grants, please.

Arch Grants is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for all applicants. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please let us know. For questions, accommodations, or to make a candidate referral, contact sarah@occhiosearch.com, angie@occhiosearch.com, or elly@occhiosearch.com.

Arch Grants is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome differences in form of gender, race, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic status, age, political affiliation, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and veteran status. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and we look forward to hearing from you!

STL RBC – Director of Policy & Strategic Initiatives

ABOUT REGIONAL BUSINESS COUNCIL

The Regional Business Council (“RBC”) represents 100 CEOs of some of the region’s largest employers who come together to take on high-impact issues to make St. Louis a stronger region. RBC is not a chamber of commerce, it is not focused on attracting companies to relocate to St. Louis, it is not a lobbyist for St. Louis legislation, and it is not the marketing machine for the St. Louis brand. The region has several outstanding organizations that focus on doing just that.

RBC is a CEO circle that catalyzes action. RBC’s vision is that everyone deserves a good education, a path to a good career, and a safe neighborhood. RBC members are action-oriented, hands-on, and focused on improving K-12 education in under-resourced areas, building professional and skilled workforce pipelines, enhancing public safety, and promoting regionalism.

The RBC staff are a talented, collaborative team of individuals who are motivated by mission. The team partners to deliver on RBC’s strategic priorities, supporting each other every step of the way. Together with RBC members, they are part of an organization that is making the St. Louis region stronger. To learn more, visit us at https://www.stlrbc.org.=

WHAT YOU’LL DO AS DIRECTOR OF POLICY & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

Reporting directly to RBC’s President & CEO, the Director of Policy & Strategic Initiatives will serve as a key partner and advisor to the CEO in advancing RBC’s priorities. The leader in this position will help shape initiatives, inform decision-making, collaborate regionally, and build the relationships to drive meaningful progress on regional issues.

• ADVANCE THE MISSION – Serve as a trusted advisor, point person, thought partner, and communications strategist to the President & CEO. Act as a visible and credible ambassador for RBC, representing and supporting the CEO at key meetings, at events, on committees, and with community groups and leaders. Build and sustain strong relationships and trust with civic, business, and community leaders to help advance progress on RBC’s work in K-12 education, crime and public safety, talent development, and regionalism.
• ADVANCE STRATEGIC INITIATIVES – Identify opportunities to catalyze meaningful, sustained progress across the St. Louis region. Monitor and analyze emerging regional and policy trends, conduct targeted research and analysis, and translate insights into clear, actionable strategies and strategic communications that support the RBC mission. Partner closely with CEOs, business leaders, and civic stakeholders to advance initiatives in K-12 education in under-resourced communities, expand access to career pathways and talent pipelines through workforce development initiatives, and support efforts to improve public safety, and regional vitality. Play an active role in fostering collaboration, aligning stakeholders, and moving initiatives from concept to measurable impact.
• SERVE AS A KEY RESOURCE ON PUBLIC POLICY & GOVERNMENT RELATIONS – Monitor, analyze and advise RBC on key national, state and local legislative issues and their potential impact and/or opportunity for the region.  Develop and maintain durable relationships with key staff supporting the state, local and national elected officials, and arrange informational and educational meetings for key elected officials with RBC’s Public Policy Committee. Provide regular legislative updates to RBC members on activity in the Missouri and Illinois legislatures. Serve as the RBC staff lead for planning and executing RBC special events with elected officials.

WHY JOIN US?

• MAKE A FOREVER IMPACT IN OUR COMMUNITY – Become part of our commitment to make an impact on business, civic, and philanthropic affairs in the St. Louis community. We are advancing access to quality education; pathways to highly skilled, highly paid jobs; networks and a sense of belonging for young professionals; public safety; and regionalism. If you’re ready to lead programs that change lives and help shape the future of St. Louis, we’d love to meet you.
• COMPETITIVE SALARY & COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS – Compensation includes a competitive annual base salary, commensurate with experience, and bonus eligibility. RBC also offers comprehensive health insurance including medical, dental, and vision (75% employer-paid for employee; 50% for family); paid time off for vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays; a generous matching 401(k)-retirement plan; group life insurance and long-term disability insurance; free onsite parking; free onsite fitness center; and professional development opportunities.

QUALIFIED & INTERESTED? 

This role could be a match for you if …

• You are passionate about RBC’s mission and have a desire to better the St. Louis region!
• You have 5+ years of proven government relations and issues management experience in a leadership role, with keen understanding of how legislative and political processes work, strong existing relationships and trust with key legislative staff and a seasoned ability to develop and nurture new relationships, a proven aptitude for managing and executing complex projects, the ability to work with high-level executives with a high degree of professionalism, and experienced in developing and advocating for policy positions that help advance the region, without crossing over into lobbying.
• You are a highly skilled, strategic writer and presenter, with proven experience successfully articulating strategy and delivering clear and compelling business communications and analyses to internal and external audiences, both verbally and in written communications.
• You are a skilled relationship builder and relationship manager, with a keen understanding of how to align strategic priorities with those of outside parties, earn and nurture trust, and create options for shared success.
• You are focused, organized, and results oriented.
• You are experienced engaging and working with high-level stakeholders, leading groups, and consistently working with a high level of professionalism, relationship savvy, executive presence, and humility.
• You are a team player who is motivated to support others proactively and reactively.
• You are a critical thinker, strategist, and problem-solver who is motivated to uncover new solutions and also find new ways to make organizations, programs and processes more efficient and impactful.
• You enjoy a wide spectrum of projects and can flex between strategic and tactical priorities.
• You have a relevant college degree.

WORK LOCATION & OFFICE HOURS

This position requires an on-site presence at RBC’s office five (5) days a week. Standard office hours are 8:00am – 5:00pm, with “early Fridays” ending at 3:00pm. Position based at 7701 Forsyth Avenue, Ste. 205, Clayton, Missouri, 63105. Free parking provided.

READY TO APPLY? 

Take the next step and complete the interest form on this page to share your resume with Occhio Search & Recruitment.  All resumes, referrals and general inquiries will be held strictly confidential. 

No direct inquiries with St. Louis Regional Business Council, please. 

St. Louis Regional Business Council is an Equal Opportunity Organization. We welcome differences in form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and veteran status. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply and we look forward to hearing from you!

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Many thanks for your time and interest in leadership opportunities with Occhio’s client base!