Executive Director, Wichita Public Schools Foundation

Job Title: Executive Director - Wichita Public Schools Foundation

Essential Performance Responsibilities:

1. Oversee and implement strategies that support the mission and vision of the Foundation; drive ongoing monitoring and evaluation to assess achievement of organizational goals and objectives.
2. Develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including a plan for individual, corporate, institutional, and foundation solicitation, annual appeals, and special events; ensure that the fundraising activities are consistent with the Foundation's mission and vision.
3. Develop and manage an annual operating budget, fundraising for general operations of the Foundation, and modeling projections per fundraising priorities and program investments.
4. Develop and oversee a strategic communications plan to raise the Foundation's visibility and advance its mission and brand identity; provide leadership and support to the Board of Trustees to communicate the Foundation's goals; represent the Foundation at all levels of engagement with external stakeholders, including opportunities with the philanthropic community and government agencies.
5. Develop, analyze, and evaluate systems and structures for tracking and reporting fundraising data.
6. Maintain a collaborative relationship with the Wichita Public Schools Superintendent, Board of Education, staff, and administrators to effectively implement a fundraising strategy that is responsive to their needs.
7. Work collaboratively with other nonprofit and government agencies that serve the educational community.
8. Identify, cultivate, and solicit new and existing prospects and donors.
9. Oversee the successful administration of Foundation operations; as the Foundation grows and becomes self-sustaining, invest in the development, supervision, and evaluation of future staff.
10. Supervise and evaluate any third parties hired by or on behalf of the Foundation.
11. Work with financial advisors and the Board of Trustees to develop, implement, and regularly review an investment strategy to maximize investment earnings on donated funds.
12. Support the Board of Trustees in executing its governance responsibilities and its ability to make informed decisions; plan and execute communications and presentations to the Board about finances and operations; attend Board/Committee meetings and prepare other reports as directed by the Board of Trustees.
13. Oversee and manage any annual audits and all organizational financial activity in partnership with the Board Treasurer, the Chair, and external accountant.
14. Develop and manage grant proposals to secure funding from governmental and non-governmental sources; oversee grant compliance and reporting.
15. Foster relationships with alumni, community leaders, and key stakeholders to enhance the Foundation's network and support base.
16. Design, implement, and oversee educational programs and initiatives funded by the Foundation to ensure they meet the strategic goals and objectives.
17. Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations; develop and implement risk management strategies to safeguard the Foundation's assets.
18. Implement and oversee the use of technology and innovative tools to enhance the Foundation's operations and fundraising efforts.

Position Function: 

1. Oversee all aspects of the Foundation's operations and programs, with a primary focus on strategy, fundraising, and development. The Executive Director will serve as the primary spokesperson of the Foundation and will be responsible for the overall management of the Foundation. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will design and implement all fundraising strategies and approaches to further the Foundation's mission while overseeing daily operations, including the management of any future Foundation staff.

Employee Punctuality and Appearance:

1. In order for schools to operate effectively, employees are expected to perform all assigned duties and work all scheduled hours during each designated workday, unless the employee has received approved leave
2. Any deviation from assigned hours must have prior approval from the employee's supervisor or building administrator
3. All employees are required to report to work dressed in a manner that reflects a positive image of USD 259 and is appropriate for their position

Additional Duties: Assists with additional duties as assigned by the Board of Trustees.

Equipment: This position requires the ability to use basic office equipment such as computers and copiers.

Travel: Limited travel between schools and central offices may be required.

Physical and Mental Demands:

1. Occasional heavy lifting - 20 lbs. and above.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Effective verbal and written communication skills.
2. Strong public speaking ability.
3. Ability to effectively utilize data in key decision-making.
4. Strong work ethic with a high degree of energy.
5. Exhibit a professional manner and a positive attitude.
6. Strong financial and fiscal management acumen, including budget preparation, analysis, and reporting.
7. Solid organizational abilities, including planning, delegating, program development, and task/meeting facilitation.

Interrelations:

1. Transparent, ethical, accountable, and high-integrity leadership.
2. Ability to convey with passion the Foundation's mission and vision to all stakeholders.
3. Experience and skill in working with a Board of Directors/Trustees.
4. Experience with cross-cultural environments, with previous success in establishing and sustaining excellent relationships with varied constituencies including funders, partner agencies, volunteers, government, and school officials.

Qualification Profile:

1. Master's degree preferred; Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.
2. History of successfully generating new revenue streams and improving financial results.
3. Active and significant fundraising experience with a proven track record that includes directly soliciting, negotiating, and closing significant gifts.
4. Senior leadership experience, including leadership in the field of fundraising or development.
5. Experience in K-12 education preferred.
6. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the Wichita philanthropic community preferred.
7. Demonstrated ability to oversee and collaborate with staff and the ability to self-motivate.

FLSA Status: Exempt

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