JOB DESCRIPTION:  Executive Director

Reports to: Board of Directors

Status: Exempt - Full Time

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Summary:

The Executive Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and financial management of the Warren Forest Higher Education Council. This active and fully engaged role ensures that the Council operates effectively within established policies, budgetary guidelines, and strategic objectives set by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director serves as the primary advocate and representative of the organization, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders across education, government, business, and the community.

 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Program Development

• Identify and assess community needs for educational programs, including graduate, undergraduate, non-credit, contract training, and specialized courses.

• Collaborate with current and potential higher education partners to expand program offerings that align with current workforce, community, and emerging industry demands.

• Communicate data-driven and researched program proposals and initiatives to the Board of Directors for strategic planning and decision-making.

Financial & Operational Management

• Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring short and long-term financial stability and presenting balanced plans supporting said budget to the Board.

• Oversee fiscal operations, including accounting, grant management, and compliance with all financial reporting standards, maintaining transparency and accuracy

• Identify and secure funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and partnerships, to support educational initiatives.

• Oversee and optimize facility, equipment, and investments in technology needs to enhance program delivery, quality and operational efficiency.

Stakeholder Engagement & Community Relations

• Lead public relations and government affairs efforts to enhance the visibility and impact of the Council’s programs. through media coverage and stakeholder engagement.

• Manage the development and execution of a marketing strategy to promote programs and initiatives to the public with a goal of boosting awareness and participation.The leveraging of digital and traditional channels is critical.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, higher education institutions, business leaders, and community organizations to advance shared goals and council objectives.

• Serve as the Council’s ambassador on external boards and committees, championing access to higher education and influencing policy.

Staff & Organizational Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team effort, fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture that drives performance and retains talent.

• Guide staff in procuring and maintaining cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and program delivery.

• Administer the Council’s scholarship program, distributing in coordination with the Scholarship Committee to support student success.

Compliance Oversight

• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity across all operations.

• Deliver reports to the Board, detailing organizational performance, key achievements, and actionable solutions to challenges.

 

Qualifications & Experience

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with minimal direction. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Must be a self-starter and easily able to adapt to a fast-changing environment.

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s preferred) in education, business, nonprofit management, or a related field, with 5+ years of leadership experience. 

• Expertise in financial management, strategic planning, marketing, and public relations, with a history of successful fundraising. 

• Demonstrated success in community engagement, government relations, and building partnerships with diverse stakeholders. 

• Strong skills in managing personnel, technology systems, and facilities, with a focus on operational excellence. 

• High integrity, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in complex, fast-paced settings.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite especially Outlook, Excel and Word.

 

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for long periods of time up to 85% of work hours.

• Ability to use hands to grasp, handle or feel.

• Ability to use computer keyboard and system to enter data and process information.

• Ability to read a computer screen at a close distance.

 

Travel Requirements:

Required to travel to Harrisburg two to four times per year.  Occasionally required to attend regional meetings with CEC’s and other organizations.

 

Schedule Flexibility Requirements:

Will periodically required to perform additional duties or tasks outside of the regular work schedule.

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Salary:  Competitive and based on experience.

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Benefits:

• Health Reimbursement Account

• Generous and Defined Vacation Time Policy

• Traditional Holiday Observances

• Defined Sick Time Policy

• SIMPLE IRA with defined match

• Life Insurance​