Executive Director of Youth Traditional Chinese Music Orchestra

The Executive Director will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Purple Silk Music Education Foundation, responsible for the overall strategic, operational, and financial management of the organization. The ED will work closely with the Board of Directors and teaching staff to advance the mission, secure funding, and build a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community around our orchestra.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Vision

• Foster a positive and inclusive organizational culture that promotes collaboration and a shared sense of purpose.
• Inspire and motivate staff, board members, volunteers, and donors to advance the mission and values of the organization.
• Build relationships with key stakeholders, including local schools, businesses, donors, and government entities to promote the orchestra's mission and vision.

Board Partnership

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set strategic goals and priorities, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and vision.
• Provide board members with the necessary resources, information, and training to effectively serve as ambassadors and advocates for the organization.
• Engage actively with Board committees to support their efforts and meet organizational goals.

Program and Strategy Development

• Drive strategic growth by expanding program reach to new schools and organizations, while building and maintaining partnership with Laney College.
• Develop and implement strategic plans in partnership with the board and staff, setting clear goals and metrics for success.
• Oversee program development and evaluation, ensuring programs are aligned with the mission and responsive to community needs.
• Establish contracts with schools, leveraging an understanding of academic year activities and the flow of the school calendar to optimize program delivery and engagement.

People Management and Development

• Recruit, lead, and retain a talented and diverse team, ensuring staff are motivated and equipped to meet program goals.
• Implement professional development and performance evaluation processes by establishing effective protocols for meetings, workflows, and decision-making.

Financial Management and Fundraising

• Work with the Board and staff to identify and cultivate donor prospects, develop grant proposals, fundraise, and secure funding.
• Ensure compliance with grant requirements by regularly monitoring and updating necessary data, keeping the Board informed of any discrepancies and progress toward targets.
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies, including annual events and donor engagement plans.
• Oversee financial management, including budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with legal and financial standards.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in a director-level position, with prior executive director experience preferred.
• An understanding of the flow of the Bay Area academic school year and how it relates to the operation of a music education non-profit.
• Proven track record in leading teams, engaging school aged youth and their families , and working with a board of directors.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, including securing gifts and managing donor relationships.
• Strong financial literacy and experience in creating and managing budgets.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field.

Working Conditions

• Environment: Typically, an indoor working environment
• Driving a vehicle to conduct work
• Some remote work flexibility allowed
• Saturday and evening work required
• Ability to review laws and codes, rules and policies, and other printed matters.

Physical Demands of the Job

• Use and manipulate a computer keyboard and other office equipment
• Read a variety of materials
• Sit and stand for extended periods of time
• Lift 50 pounds or more