the client supports the teaching and practice of historically informed investigative reporting in service of multiracial democracy. Through academic and financial support, it empowers students, faculty, and journalism organizations, promoting press freedom, racial justice, and public accountability through research, partnerships, and programming. The client seeks a strategic, mission-driven Executive Director to provide day-to-day leadership and management for the center’s operations, programs, and team, reporting closely with the Founding Director. The role will translate the center’s vision into action and guide its transition from a successful startup into an established, influential institution.
The Executive Director will oversee a growing team, develop and manage multimillion-dollar budgets and grant portfolios, cultivate strategic partnerships, launch and oversee ambitious programming, and lead fundraising efforts that support and strengthen pro-democracy journalism. The ideal candidate is expected to be a strategic builder and operational thought leader who thrives in collaborative, dynamic environments, with a track record of developing teams, scaling programs, and navigating complex organizational systems. The role centers on advancing historically informed investigative journalism with a strong commitment to journalism, democracy, and racial equity.
Key responsibilities include serving as a thought partner by translating vision into operational and strategic plans, providing day-to-day leadership and oversight for staff, programs, and operations, setting clear measurable goals and tracking progress and impact, and building an inclusive, collaborative, supportive, high-performing culture. The Executive Director will oversee grant portfolio management, including budget development, spending, tracking, and compliance; supervise grant proposal and reporting processes; collaborate with fundraising leadership on major campaigns and donor engagement strategies; and ensure responsible stewardship and long-term financial sustainability. The Executive Director will also lead program implementation across academic and professional development initiatives, collaborate on program budgets and operational plans, launch and scale mission-aligned initiatives, and represent the center publicly while cultivating strategic external partnerships.