Description
About the Position
The position serves as Executive Director (ED), as a member of ARC team, of the California Association of Science Educators and reports to the CASE Executive Committee and Board of Directors, as an ARC client partner, for the effective leadership and management of the Association.
The ED guides and executes all activities of the association, ensuring alignment with the Board’s mission, strategic goals, and policies. This role involves close collaboration with state-level policymakers and education agencies, including the California Department of Education (CDE), State Board of Education (SBE), Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), state legislators and staff, and partner organizations statewide and nationally.
The Executive Director supervises all staff assigned to the CASE team through ARC, including but not limited to administrative, communications, membership, finance, and event personnel.
Essential Responsibilities
Board & Governance
Provide visionary and strategic leadership for the organization, ensuring progress toward CASE’s mission and strategic plan.
Keep the Board and Executive Committee fully informed on the conditions, operations, and external factors influencing the Association.
Assist in the development and execution of the strategic plan, policies, and programs approved by the Board.
Develop agendas and materials for Board and Executive Committee meetings in collaboration with the President.
Ensure proper recordkeeping, including minutes, legal and historical documents, and financial reports.
In collaboration with ARC, oversee budget preparation, financial monitoring, audits, and compliance with nonprofit and association standards.
Execute all decisions of the Board and ensure compliance with CASE bylaws and applicable laws.
Representation & Policy Leadership
Serve as the primary spokesperson and representative for CASE to policymakers, education agencies, and partner organizations.
Build and maintain strong relationships with CDE, SBE, CTC, the CA Governor’s Office, the CA Legislature, CA County Superintendents, and other education and STEM-focused organizations.
Oversee the development and execution of CASE’s policy and advocacy agenda in collaboration with the Board and associated committees.
Represent CASE in coalitions and alliances that promote science education and equitable access to high-quality instruction.
Draft or oversee public statements, testimony, letters of support or opposition, and other advocacy materials consistent with CASE policy positions.
Monitor and respond to policy developments at the state and national levels impacting science education.
Membership & Communications
Oversee all aspects of membership recruitment, engagement, and retention in collaboration with the Membership Committee and staff.
Ensure the development and delivery of meaningful membership benefits, professional learning opportunities and resources, and communications.
Facilitate and oversee the development of CASE’s publications, including California Classroom Science, special journals, white papers, policy statements, and professional learning resources.
Supervise and coordinate the production of CASE’s digital communications, the website, and social media in collaboration with the associated committees.
Strengthen CASE’s visibility and impact by maintaining clear, consistent, and mission-aligned messaging.
Operations & Staff Leadership
Provide leadership and oversight of day-to-day operations in collaboration with ARC.
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate all staff, ensuring a positive, productive, and mission-driven team culture.
Oversee administrative systems, financial procedures, and reporting.
Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations, employment laws, and accounting requirements.
Authorize and execute contracts, agreements, and commitments as approved by the Board.
Conference & Events
Provide strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight for CASE’s annual statewide conference and other professional learning events.
Collaborate with the Conference Co-Chairs, committees, and staff to ensure programmatic excellence and fiscal responsibility.
Support conference exhibitor and sponsor engagement in collaboration with ARC staff.
Oversee event marketing and communication to align with CASE’s goals and brand.
Resource Development
Oversee financial sustainability through membership, sponsorships, conference revenue, and grants.
Pursue funding opportunities and partnerships that support CASE initiatives and priorities.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with funders and partners.
Requirements
Requested Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
Minimum of five years of experience in nonprofit or association management.
Proven success in leadership, staff supervision, and organizational management.
Strong understanding of California’s education system and policymaking environment.
Demonstrates proficiency in developing, monitoring, and managing budgets; identifying and securing funding sources; and ensuring fiscal accountability in alignment with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
Effectively uses advanced communication skills, including the ability to prepare, present, and interpret information effectively through written documents, oral discussions, and formal presentations to diverse audiences.
Strategic thinker with the ability to balance long-term vision and operational execution.
Previous experience developing, coordinating, and maintaining productive partnerships with a broad range of community partners, including internal teams, community organizations, and external agencies, to support organizational priorities.
Proficiency in technology, digital communications, and association management systems.
Valid California driver’s license, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
