Director of Special Projects

Institute on Aging; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 166,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Institute on Aging is seeking a Director of Special Projects to partner with the executive leadership team on high-priority initiatives that advance mission and organizational effectiveness. You will lead cross-functional projects spanning programs, philanthropy, quality improvement, and transformation.

The role requires 12+ years of progressive nonprofit leadership, exceptional program management, and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management or related field.
• Experience leading complex cross-functional initiatives.
• Experience working with executive leaders preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise-wide strategic projects identified by the executive leadership team.
• Collaborate to develop project goals, timelines, deliverables, and success metrics.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure on-time, within-scope completion.
• Identify opportunities to enhance organizational effectiveness and performance.
• Prepare executive-level presentations and reports.

Job description

IOA is on the forefront of revolutionary healthcare models, reshaping the way people can age in place. Our innovative models transform lives, enhance communities, and save healthcare systems millions of dollars. Rather than focusing on archaic outdated design, we strive to consistently question the “status‑quo” and create new and more innovative ways to help aging adults and adults with disabilities maintain their quality of life.

With over 23 programs, we offer multiple ways to aid seniors maintain their health, well‑being, independence and participation in the community, fulfilling our mission.

The Director of Special Projects serves as a strategic partner to the executive leadership team and is responsible for leading high‑priority initiatives that advance the mission, operational effectiveness, and long‑term sustainability of the organization. This role manages complex, cross‑functional projects that may span program operations, philanthropy, quality improvement, and organizational transformation.

The Director of Special Projects works closely with executive leadership, department and program leaders on a cross‑functional basis, to ensure critical initiatives are successfully designed, implemented, and evaluated. This individual combines strategic thinking, operational excellence, and relationship‑building skills to drive meaningful outcomes for the organization and the communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Initiative Leadership

• Lead and manage enterprise-wide strategic projects identified by the executive leadership team.
• Collaborate to develop project goals, timelines, deliverables, and success metrics.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure projects are completed on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational priorities.
• Identify opportunities to enhance organizational effectiveness and operational performance.

Executive Support and Organizational Priorities

• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on special initiatives, organizational challenges, and emerging opportunities.
• Conduct research, analysis, and business case development to support strategic decision‑making.
• Prepare executive-level presentations and reports.

Performance Improvement and Change Management

• Lead process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and quality across the organization.
• Facilitate change management efforts associated with new policies or organizational initiatives.
• Establish key performance indicators and monitor outcomes to ensure project objectives are achieved.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

• Develop communication plans for key organizational initiatives.
• Build consensus among stakeholders with diverse perspectives and priorities.
• Present project updates and recommendations to senior leadership.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree required

Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, consulting, project management, or a related field.
• Experience leading complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives from concept through implementation.
• Demonstrated success managing cross‑functional projects and organizational change.
• Experience working with executive leaders preferred

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional project and program management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into execution.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Ability to influence and build relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Financial acumen, budgeting experience, and data‑driven decision‑making skills

Compensation

• Range: $165,500-180,000 /annual