Executive Director

About Us

Founded in 2009, Carpe Mundi empowers first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds to realize their full potential through a unique combination of mentorship and international learning experiences. Based in Portland, Oregon, we partner with Where There Be Dragons to offer experiential education programs that create transformative opportunities for students. Our vibrant team and engaged community focus on equity, access, and student success. So far, we’ve supported 165 students to travel to 18 countries. With an annual budget of approximately $300k, Carpe Mundi has a talented staff of 3 and a dedicated 5-member board of directors.

About the Opportunity

The Executive Director (ED) provides visionary leadership, ensuring Carpe Mundi fulfills its mission while achieving financial sustainability and strategic growth. The ED oversees all aspects of the organization, including fundraising, board relations, staff management, program delivery, and community engagement. Our ideal candidate is a creative thinker with a passion for education, a track record of successful fundraising, an appreciation for diverse cultures, and the an ability to build and maintain strong relationships.

Carpe Mundi seeks to build an inclusive workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our student community. We are committed to fostering a culture where difference is celebrated, and everyone feels safe and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We consider all applicants holistically and strongly encourage applications from historically underrepresented groups.

Executive Director Leadership Profile:

Required Capabilities and Experience

• Proven track record in nonprofit leadership, with at least 5 years of experience in a senior management role.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including donor cultivation and grant writing.
• Strategic planning experience.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) principles and their implementation.
• Financial management experience with a comparably-sized organization or program.

Also Preferred

• Experience working with first-generation college students.
• Familiarity with study abroad programs.
• Knowledge of higher education and scholarship management.
• Proficiency in Spanish (or other) language in addition to English.
• International travel experience.

Desired Personal Qualities

Collaborative, confident, caring, energetic, inquisitive. Comfortable shifting gears and wearing many hats.