Executive Director / Pre-Arranged Joint Co-Executive Directors

Executive Director / Prearranged Joint Co-Executive Directors

Job Overview

Next Step Learning Center's mission is to help low-income youth and adults re-engage in education, creating learning pathways out of poverty and reducing disparities. As their next leader, proudly guide a stable, privately funded (no reliance on any government funding at this time) organization with seasoned employees into its next organizational life cycle. Start the process by engaging with the well run programming, build off improved management infrastructure instituted during an interim leadership process, and envision and implement a strategic planning effort and improved fundraising through the latter part of 2025. Loyal volunteers and donors continue to sustain the organization now and for the near future, and there exists an array of opportunities to enrich and grow that support.

For over 30 years, NSLC has aspired to strengthen East Bay families and communities through intensive, no-fee, personalized education programs ranging from basic literacy to high school completion and transitions to college and the workforce.

Through a continuing relationship with Holy Names Educational Ministries, we provide a caring environment for individuals with limited resources, transitional age youth and adults – all seeking increased opportunities for success in life through improved educational achievement and the skills needed to succeed in higher education and/or careers.

We are seeking a strong leader who knows their own strengths and weaknesses and who can fashion a leadership style that maintains the momentum of this very successful, regional, community focused organization. We are open to a pre-arranged Co Executive Director team applying jointly as one submission. (See Application Guidelines).

Major Responsibilities

Reports to the Board of Directors, as outlined in the Bylaws, and supervises all Staff and Volunteer relationships. Responsible for the strategic vision and general operations of the organization, seeking assistance and support as needed. Evaluated annually by the Board of Directors. A significant portion of time will be spent on strengthening fundraising efforts to build upon the reserve and ensure sustainability.

Fund Development

• Assure that the organization has long-range and diverse funding strategies to support the successful implementation of programmatic and long-term goals. Identify and pursue grant opportunities and institutional funding sources. Develop, maintain, and nurture connections with donors. Lead expansion of fund-raising efforts.

Overall Program Management

• Ensure that program objectives are clear and that activities are focused and consistent with the overall tone for the program. Serve as the overseer for all staff, students, and volunteers.

Community and Public Relations, Events Management and Marketing

• Serve as the “face” of the organization, representing the programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations, and the general public. Increase the awareness, visibility, influence and impact of the organization. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Alameda County Office of Education and other community non- profits and businesses. Support a robust website and online social network presence.
• Create and implement key events, including, but not limited to, Holiday Gatherings, Volunteer and Donor Appreciation luncheons, Graduation, and organization-wide celebrations.

Board Relations and Support

• Lead the organization in accordance with Board direction. Work with Board leadership to further recruit and develop a diverse, effective, and energized Board. Provide the Board with adequate information to help members reach sound decisions and establish policies. Support the Executive Committee in preparing agenda for Board meetings. Support the Board committees and task force groups.

Financial Oversight

• Ensure that the organization is fiscally sound and that the budget supports implementation of desired strategy. Recommend yearly budget for Board approval and manage organization's resources within those budget guidelines. Participate in the monitoring of appropriate investment strategies for funds. Maintain and monitor relationships with our vendors and financial partners.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a demonstrated track record of securing individual, corporate, and foundation grants.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with donors and cultivate relationships.
• Strong writing and editing abilities to craft compelling fundraising appeals and grant proposals.
• Proficiency in donor database management systems.
• Understanding of nonprofit compliance regulations related to fundraising.
• Passion for the organization's mission and a commitment to ethical fundraising practices.
• Experience in non-profit financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
• Experience in human resource practices, including recruitment, employee relations, and compliance
• Strong project management and vendor supervision skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders
• Familiarity with non-profit regulations and compliance requirements

Must be available to work some nights and weekends, as needed.

Application Materials & Process - Initial Deadline for Application: May 13, 2025

1. Cover Letter briefly summarizing (maximum of 3 pages) background, interest and addressing these questions:

• What are the sources for my passion in adult educational services and what skills in this area do I bring to the table?
• What is my experience and expertise for fundraising, specifically in the East Bay?
• What are some examples where you have worked with a Board and community to improve Governance and community engagement, including volunteerism?
• For any Pre Arranged Co Executive Director submissions please devote at least one paragraph as to how duties and responsibilities will be divided between the two co applicants.

1. Resume(s)
2. Materials should be sent to the search committee at parca@nextseplc.org
3. At offer of Employment, the finalist(s) will be asked for three work references and need a clearance on background check, with actual employment start dependent on those final items.