Executive Director

The Executive Director of the Worcester Educational Development Fund (WEDF) leads the organization’s daily operations, guides its strategic direction, and manages relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, the Worcester Public Schools (WPS) administration, and the broader community. The Executive Director oversees financial operations, staff and consultant management, and fundraising initiatives, ensuring that WEDF meets its goals in alignment with its mission to support teachers and students in Worcester Public Schools. Additionally, the Executive Director enhances Board effectiveness by supporting Board development, ensuring active engagement, and fostering productive collaboration among Board members.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Culture:

• Foster a strong, positive organizational culture, promoting collaboration and shared purpose among board and team members.

Financial Oversight:

• Collaborate with financial consultants to develop, monitor, and reconcile the organization’s budget.
• Ensure accurate financial reporting and accountability for account spending.
• Facilitate the yearly audit process to ensure all financial records are accurate and in compliance with standards, working closely with auditors and financial consultants.

Fundraising & Grants:

• Analyze, optimize, and lead fundraising strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Lead the grant writing and reporting process for all grants and funding requests.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors, prospects, and funders.

Communications & Outreach:

• Oversee all communications, including managing the website, engaging through social media, delivering quarterly newsletters, and utilizing other channels to effectively convey the organization’s mission.
• Manage relationships with the WPS administration and other community stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary representative of WEDF at community events, fundraisers, and external engagements.

Board & Governance:

• Report regularly to the Board of Directors on organizational performance, strategy execution, and progress toward goals.
• Collaborate with the Board to set priorities, develop strategic initiatives, and monitor progress.
• Engage the Board actively and drive recommendations for new Board members as needed, ensuring the Board composition aligns with WEDF’s evolving needs and strategic goals.
• Provide leadership and guidance to Board committees, assisting with ideation and the execution of key WEDF functions.
• Ensure WEDF meets all obligations to maintain its 501(c)(3) status, including regulatory filings, compliance with IRS guidelines, and adherence to nonprofit governance best practices.

Event Leadership:

• Oversee the planning, organization, and execution of all WEDF events (WPS Distinguished Alumni, WPS Athletic Hall of Fame, and a third to be determined), ensuring alignment with organizational goals and community engagement.

Skills, Abilities, and Competencies:

• Strong organizational skills and impeccable attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in grant writing a plus.
• Proficiency in Google Docs and experience with database management.
• Familiarity and comfort with social media platforms.
• Strong management and financial reporting skills.
• Ability to work with and engage with people in fundraising and networking opportunities.
• Strong goal orientation and flexibility to adapt to changing priorities.
• Must be independent, proactive, and able to work under pressure with tight deadlines.

Experience with nonprofits, particularly in fundraising, community engagement, or program development, is a plus.

Compensation: The role includes a base salary of $60,000 per year, with additional incentives based on meeting defined milestones.

• This position does not include benefits.
• While this role does not include traditional benefits, it offers flexibility in scheduling and the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization.

ABOUT WEDF

The Worcester Educational Development Foundation (WEDF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the educational experience of students in the Worcester Public Schools. WEDF provides essential resources, including mini-grants, coats for children, and funding for field trips, ensuring students have the support they need to succeed. The foundation also hosts fundraising events such as the Distinguished Alumni Awards, which honors notable graduates, and the Athletic Hall of Fame, celebrating outstanding Worcester Public Schools athletes. Additionally, WEDF awards scholarships and provides graduating seniors with computers, helping to bridge opportunity gaps and promote educational equity. Through these initiatives, WEDF plays a vital role in fostering an environment where every student can reach their full potential.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

The Worcester Educational Development Foundation, Inc. (WEDF) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Educational Organization and does not discriminate regardless of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness. WEDF provides equal access to employment and the full range of general programs.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 30 per week

Ability to Commute:

• Worcester, MA 01609 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Worcester, MA 01609

Salary : $60,000