Executive Director at WAAW Foundation

SUMMARY AND OBJECTIVE

• WAAW Foundation is seeking a highly motivated visionary leader responsible for driving the organization's mission, strategy, and overall success. They will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and effective management to ensure the Foundation achieves its goals in empowering African women and girls in STEM education. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement strategic plans in alignment with the Foundation's mission and goals.
• Provide visionary leadership to drive innovation, growth, and sustainability.
• Identify emerging opportunities, trends, and challenges in STEM education and women's empowerment.

Program Development and Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the organization, providing executive direction of all program strategy, compliance, quality assurance, and program efficiency.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs aimed at advancing African women and girls in STEM fields.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop impactful initiatives that address the needs of target communities.
• Ensure program effectiveness through regular monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement.

Financial Management:

• Develop and manage the annual budget in accordance with strategic priorities and financial goals.
• Set and meet aggressive annual fundraising goals, in partnership with the board of directors, to secure financial support from foundations, corporations, individuals, and government funding sources
• Secure funding through grants, sponsorships, donations, and other revenue streams to support program activities.
• Ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements.

Partnership and Stakeholder Management:

• Cultivate strategic partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, corporations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the Foundation in various forums, conferences, and events to raise awareness and promote collaboration.
• Nurture relationships with donors, sponsors, and supporters to enhance fundraising efforts and donor stewardship.

Team Leadership and Management:

• Recruit, onboard, and retain a diverse team of talented staff, volunteers, and consultants.
• Identify and implement staffing requirements for efficient operations, maintain a strong culture and work climate that attracts and retains staff, and drives the organization’s mission.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to empower team members.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence in all aspects of the organization's work.

Advocacy and Public Relations: 

• Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote gender equality, STEM education, and women's empowerment.
• Serve as the face of the organization and actively participate in external events, both increasing visibility, credibility, and brand in the market, and developing strategic partnerships in order to increase community awareness and expand the program
• Build public awareness and support for the Foundation's mission through strategic communication and storytelling.

Governance and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing nonprofit organizations.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the Board of Directors on organizational performance, achievements, and challenges.
• Collaborate with the Board to develop policies, procedures, and governance structures that support the Foundation's mission and values.

REQUIREMENTS AND SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, international development, or related fields.
• Demonstrated commitment to gender equality, diversity, and social impact.
• Proven track record of fundraising, financial management, and resource mobilization.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical skills, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and navigate complex partnerships.
• Knowledge of STEM education, women's empowerment, and African development issues is desirable.
• Strong leadership, diplomatic, and motivational skills including the ability to lead up, across, and down.
• Proven ability to work creatively and analytically in a problem-solving environment demonstrating teamwork, innovation, and accountability.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, with an innovative approach to business planning
• Dynamic and charismatic team player who enjoys being the public face of an organization
• Experience with grant writing, budgeting, proposals, or fundraising.
• Technically competent with various software programs and apps.
• Flexible with proven ability to conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines through analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Must be able to work virtually, hold self-accountable, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work with local, regional, and international partners.
• Availability to work in various time zones and travel as needed.

BENEFITS

• Health Insurance
• Paid Time off
• Sign-on bonus
• Annual Salary review
• Data Allowance
• Bonuses
• Professional Development opportunities