Lead the Future of Women’s Leadership in Education
The New York State Association for Women in Administration (NYSAWA) is seeking a dynamic, visionary, and entrepreneurial leader to serve as its Executive Director.
This is an exciting opportunity for an accomplished professional to shape the future of a respected statewide organization with a mission to relentlessly pursue the growth and promotion of women at all levels of leadership. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors to execute NYSAWA’s mission, strengthen organizational capacity, increase membership and engagement, expand partnerships, and ensure long-term sustainability.
The Executive Director will be responsible for leadership, creating sustainable growth, managing partners and day-to-day operations under the direction of the chair and officers of the organization.
About NYSAWA
Founded in 1990, NYSAWA supports the growth and advancement of women in educational leadership through advocacy, networking, mentorship, professional learning, and leadership development opportunities. The organization serves educational leaders across New York State and is committed to increasing opportunities and support for women at all levels of leadership —a mission that has driven a surge in membership of over 50% between 2022 and 2026.
Position Responsibilities
Strategic and Organizational Leadership
- Provide leadership aligned with the vision and strategic priorities established by the Board of Directors.
- Under direction of the Board – develop and implement long-term organizational goals and strategic initiatives.
- Provide regular reports, recommendations, and updates to the Board regarding organizational performance, opportunities, and challenges.
- Aid the Board in building organizational systems and structures that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.
- Help ensure effective governance support for Board committees and volunteer leaders.
- Develop materials that provide new board member orientation and support.
Membership Growth and Engagement
- Develop and implement strategies to increase membership throughout New York State.
- Strengthen member engagement, retention, and satisfaction.
- Expand networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for members.
- Foster strong relationships with educational leaders, school districts, BOCES, higher education institutions, and professional associations.
- Utilize data and feedback to identify member needs and drive continuous improvement.
Operations and Administration
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the organization.
- Oversee day to day communications, membership services, website management, and organizational records.
- Under the direction of the board treasurer coordinate contracts, vendors, consultants, and external service providers.
- Ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and reporting requirements.
Financial Management and Resource Development
- Work with the board to secure sponsorships, partnerships, grants, and other revenue-generating opportunities.
- Support fundraising and development initiatives that advance the organization’s mission.
Program and Event Leadership
- Provide oversight, operational management and regular direction setting for NYSAWA’s annual conference and other professional learning programs.
- Work collaboratively with planning committees to deliver high-quality events and member experiences.
- Identify opportunities to expand programs and services that support leadership development.
- Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements.
External Relations and Advocacy
- Promote the mission, accomplishments, and impact of NYSAWA throughout New York State.
- Elevate awareness of issues affecting women in educational leadership.
- Work with NYSAWA’S communications team to strategically grow name recognition and membership in areas of the state where it is limited or does not exist.
- Enact the board’s plan to execute NYSAWA’s long-term plan that allows for growth in the field of advocacy on women’s issues at a state and national level.
Qualifications
Required
- Master’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of five years of leadership or management experience.
- Demonstrated success in organizational leadership, program development, project management, or association management.
- Strong communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills.
- Experience working with budgets and organizational operations.
- Ability to work effectively with volunteer leaders, boards, and diverse stakeholder groups.
Preferred
- Experience in educational leadership, school administration, higher education, BOCES, or nonprofit leadership.
- Knowledge of board governance and nonprofit management.
- Experience with membership organizations or professional associations.
- Proven success in fundraising, sponsorship development, and partnership building.
- Familiarity with New York State education systems and leadership networks.
- Career evidence of supporting the growth and promotion of female leaders.
Desired Leadership Attributes
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Visionary thinking and strategic leadership
- Entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
- High levels of integrity and professionalism
- Financial and operational acumen
- Collaborative leadership and team-building abilities
- Passion for advancing women in leadership
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
Compensation
The compensation for this position is $55,000 annually. This is a contracted position under a 1099 and does not include a health or retirement benefits package. This is a remote position, although some in person (at conferences and events) will be required.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- Cover letter describing interest and qualifications
- Current résumé
- Three professional references
To nysawa@nysawa.org. Please include “Application for Executive Director” in the subject line.Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.