Job Description:
The Executive Director – National Programs will spearhead the strategic direction, development, and management of national initiatives within the organization. This role requires an experienced leader who can cultivate partnerships, drive programmatic excellence, and optimize organizational performance across diverse operational landscapes. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of policy frameworks, funding landscapes, and national stakeholder engagement, with a proven track record of managing complex projects that align with the organization’s mission and objectives. The Executive Director will also be responsible for fostering innovation, guiding a high-functioning team, and ensuring that all national programs are responsive, impactful, and aligned with the organization’s core values. This position demands exceptional strategic vision, comprehensive analytical skills, and the ability to advocate for the organization’s mission at the highest levels of government and industry.
Job Requirements:
- A minimum of 15 years of executive-level experience in strategic program management within a national or global organization.
- Proven ability to develop and implement national programs that effectively respond to emerging issues and align with the organization's mission.
- Demonstrated experience in securing and managing funding from diverse sources, including government grants, private sector partnerships, and philanthropic contributions.
- Strong understanding of public policy, advocacy, and legislation relating to national programs and initiatives.
- Exceptional capability in stakeholder engagement, including experience working with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to build coalitions and partnerships.
- Excellent communication skills with a proficiency in public speaking, presenting to large audiences, and producing high-quality written materials.
- Experience in financial management and budget oversight, ensuring the effective allocation of resources and adherence to fiscal responsibilities.
- Proven track record of leading and mentoring teams, with a focus on building capacity and fostering professional development among staff.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and make data-driven decisions.
- Ability to navigate and respond to changing contexts and priorities, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.
Job Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership in the development and execution of national programs that align with organizational objectives and respond to community needs.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, funders, and partner organizations to advance program initiatives and secure funding.
- Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of national programs, ensuring they meet defined outcomes and deliver measurable impact.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team, providing direction, support, and mentorship to enhance team performance and professional development.
- Develop and implement strategies to advocate for policy changes that support the organization’s mission at local, state, and national levels.
- Ensure fiscal responsibility by developing and overseeing budgets, conducting financial analyses, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
- Represent the organization in high-level meetings, conferences, and public forums to advocate for program goals and build the organization’s profile.
- Stay abreast of national trends and emerging issues within the sector, using this knowledge to inform programmatic adjustments and innovations.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure cohesive messaging and strategy implementation across all levels of the organization.
- Produce regular reports and assessments for the board and stakeholders, communicating program successes, challenges, and strategic adjustments.
Required Skills:
- Strategic Visioning: Ability to create and communicate a compelling future direction for national programs.
- Leadership: Strong leadership capabilities in guiding diverse teams and fostering an empowering work environment.
- Financial Acumen: Expertise in managing substantial budgets and understanding financial reporting and compliance requirements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled at building and maintaining strategic alliances with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Communication Proficiency: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, capable of representing the organization at high-stakes events.
- Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities, enabling informed decision-making based on data and research.
- Project Management: Expertise in leading complex projects with multiple components and stakeholders.
- Policy Advocacy: Proficient in navigating the policy landscape to effectively advocate for organizational goals.
- Innovative Problem Solving: Ability to identify challenges and generate creative solutions that drive program success.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Comfort with utilizing data analysis to guide program development and enhancements.