Strategic Governance & Board Operations Director

IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION; Ames (IA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University Foundation in Ames, IA is looking for a Director of Strategy and Governance Operations to lead governance and long-range planning, coordinating closely with the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives to align board activities with university priorities.

The role manages ten-year strategy processes, critical governance documents, and advocacy efforts with university partners, including volunteering programs and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or professional certification preferred.
• 4+ years of professional experience related to employment area.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate governance and long-range planning activities with executive leadership.
• Align board and committee work with organizational priorities and strategy.
• Develop strategic board meeting content and ensure agendas reflect governance needs.
• Manage ten-year strategic plan processes and monitor progress quarterly.
• Oversee governance documents including bylaws and data sharing agreements.
• Research and design advocacy strategies engaging volunteers with university partners.

Skills

Project management

Organizational skills

Leadership

Data analysis and reporting

Collaboration

Verbal and written communication

Interpersonal skills

Independent and team work

Adaptability and self-direction

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree or professional certification preferred

Nonprofit knowledge

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

AI tools (Copilot)

Job description

Iowa State University Foundation in Ames, IA is looking for a Director of Strategy and Governance Operations to lead governance and long-range planning, coordinating closely with the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives to align board activities with university priorities.

The role manages ten-year strategy processes, critical governance documents, and advocacy efforts with university partners, including volunteering programs and stakeholder engagement.