Career

Executive Director Salary In Tennessee 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Executive Director, including salary, schools, and programs.

Executive Director Salary in Tennessee

Annual Median: $171,940
Hourly Median: $82.67

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Executive Director Tennessee Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$31,410$15.1
25th$94,770$45.56
Median$171,940$82.67
75th$NaN$NaN
90th$NaN$NaN

Best Schools to become a Executive Director in Tennessee 2024

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN

In-State Tuition:$7,344
Out-of-State Tuition:$26,376
Admission Rate:73%
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:20,086

Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville, TN

In-State Tuition:$27,300
Out-of-State Tuition:$27,300
Admission Rate:71%
Graduation Rate:61%
Total Enrollment:3,327

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

In-State Tuition:$8,352
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,576
Admission Rate:95%
Graduation Rate:48%
Total Enrollment:21,917

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN

In-State Tuition:$11,332
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,522
Admission Rate:68%
Graduation Rate:73%
Total Enrollment:33,805

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN

In-State Tuition:$58,130
Out-of-State Tuition:$58,130
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:13,710

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN

In-State Tuition:$7,992
Out-of-State Tuition:$24,110
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:11,283

Executive Director Salary in Tennessee FAQs

  • What factors influence the salary of an Executive Director in Tennessee?
    Several factors can impact the salary of an Executive Director, including the size and type of the organization, its geographic location within Tennessee, and the level of funding available. Additionally, previous experience, education, and specific industry expertise also play significant roles in determining compensation.

  • How does experience affect salary for an Executive Director?
    Experience is a key determinant of salary. Typically, Executive Directors with extensive experience and a proven track record of successful leadership and management in similar organizations can command higher salaries. As you advance in your career and take on more significant responsibilities, your earning potential may increase correspondingly.

  • In what types of organizations do Executive Directors typically work?
    Executive Directors can be found in a variety of organizations, including non-profits, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and governmental agencies. Each type of organization may have different funding structures, missions, and operational challenges, which can affect overall salary and benefits.

  • What is the typical career trajectory for an Executive Director?
    The career path for an Executive Director often begins with roles in management or leadership positions, followed by increasing responsibilities, such as program director or operations manager. Many Executive Directors progress through various roles within an organization before reaching the executive level, gaining diverse experiences that enhance their qualifications for leadership.

  • Are there additional benefits that come with the Executive Director role?
    Alongside base salary, positions for Executive Directors often offer various additional benefits. These may include health and retirement plans, performance bonuses, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. Employers may also provide stipends for travel or continuing education, which can enhance overall compensation.

  • How does the cost of living in Tennessee impact Executive Director salaries?
    Tennessee's cost of living can influence salaries in various sectors. Generally, salaries may be adjusted based on the cost of housing, transportation, and other living expenses in urban versus rural areas. In larger cities like Nashville or Memphis, you may find higher salary ranges to accommodate the increased cost of living.

  • What skills or qualifications are highly regarded in Executive Directors?
    Strong leadership, strategic planning, financial acumen, and excellent communication skills are essential for success as an Executive Director. Additionally, qualifications such as a master’s degree in business administration or a related field, along with specialized certifications relevant to the industry, can further enhance credibility and salary potential.

  • Is there a difference in salary expectations between non-profit and for-profit Executive Directors?
    Generally, Executive Directors in non-profit organizations may earn less than their counterparts in for-profit sectors due to differences in funding sources and organizational goals. Non-profits often focus on mission-driven outcomes rather than profit margins, which can affect salary structures. However, benefits and job satisfaction may vary across sectors.

  • What resources are available for salary negotiations for Executive Directors?
    Resources for salary negotiations include industry salary surveys, networking within professional organizations, and consultations with executive search firms. Websites that specialize in salary data can also provide insights into market trends. Engaging with mentors and peers in similar positions can offer valuable advice on negotiating strategies based on current compensation practices.