Director of State Engagement & Leadership Development

School Nutrition Association; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

School Nutrition Association is seeking a Director of Engagement & State Relations in Arlington, VA. This leadership role directs state affiliate engagement, leadership development, and governance-support across the organization, reporting to the VP of Membership and Credentialing.

You will build relationships with state Presidents and SAEs, oversee state bylaws and agreements, coordinate leadership training, manage annual conferences, and drive member engagement programs to strengthen national

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; professional work experience accepted in lieu.
• Minimum five years of experience managing programs, services, or member/affiliate engagement functions.

Responsibilities

• Lead state affiliate engagement strategy and relationships with state Presidents, SAEs, and other leaders.
• Oversee governance matters including bylaws review and state affiliation agreements.
• Develop and deliver state leadership education, onboarding programs, and succession planning.
• Plan and execute leadership conferences, including the SAE conference and related activities.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to create resources for member engagement and grassroots campaigns.
• Supervise staff and ensure high standards of service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Skills

State engagement

Volunteer leadership

Governance knowledge

Program management

Staff supervision

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

Excel

Zoom

Job description

School Nutrition Association is seeking a Director of Engagement & State Relations in Arlington, VA. This leadership role directs state affiliate engagement, leadership development, and governance-support across the organization, reporting to the VP of Membership and Credentialing.

You will build relationships with state Presidents and SAEs, oversee state bylaws and agreements, coordinate leadership training, manage annual conferences, and drive member engagement programs to strengthen national