Executive Director

Jul 29

Anticipated Start Date: September, 1, 2025

Description

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) will provide strategic and operational leadership for Upward Scholars. The ED will advance the mission by setting vision and direction, building and sustaining strategic partnerships, ensuring sound fiscal management, and guiding a talented team.

The ideal candidate will be an inspirational leader with a strong strategic orientation, proven success in fundraising, and a demonstrated ability to manage organizational growth. They will bring deep understanding and commitment to immigrant communities and will be skilled in building equitable, inclusive cultures.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic and operational leadership by developing and implementing long-term plans aligned with the organization’s mission, vision, and measurable goals. Foster a healthy, empowered staff culture by modeling transparent communication, setting clear expectations with staff, and supporting professional growth—particularly for a developing team.
Strengthen board relations and governance by collaboratively clarifying roles and responsibilities, supporting strategic engagement, and fostering a culture of shared accountability and trust.
Serve as a compelling ambassador and relationship-builder with funders, donors, and community stakeholders—drawing on lived experience, authenticity, and strategic storytelling to increase engagement and sustainable support.
Oversee financial and organizational infrastructure, including budget development, HR practices, and compliance, ensuring the organization is well-managed, fiscally sound, and equipped for long-term success. Secure resources through diverse fundraising strategies and partnerships.
Establish systems to track and evaluate program outcomes and impact. Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization. Strengthen partnerships with educational institutions, funders, and community stakeholders. Foster a culture of inclusion, transparency, and continuous improvement.
First-Year Priorities Strategic Vision & Implementation: Develop and implement a strategic vision with measurable outcomes that strengthen programmatic focus and impact. Financial Sustainability & Growth: Build a funding model that improves financial sustainability.
Operational Excellence: Establish systems that enable the organization to effectively develop staff and manage resources to achieve its long-term mission.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Implement robust measurement frameworks to track program impact and ensure data drives continuous improvement.

Requirements

Minimum 7–10 years of nonprofit leadership experience, including at least four in an executive role
Proven ability to lead strategic planning and organizational growth
Demonstrated success in fundraising across multiple channels
Strong financial acumen and budget management skills
Experience leading diverse teams with a focus on equity and inclusion
Track record of using data and metrics to inform decision-making
Bachelor's degree
Preferred Proficiency in Spanish
Experience supporting immigrant communities
Background in education or workforce development

Salary Range and Employee Benefits

$188,000 – $202,000

How to Apply for this Job

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About the Organization

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