Managing Director of Strategy

As the Managing Director of Strategy at Leading Educators, your primary responsibilities will include leading strategic planning efforts, fostering organizational alignment, engaging stakeholders and the board, championing change management initiatives, and enhancing internal communications across the organization. You'll ensure that our strategic plans align with our mission and drive measurable outcomes.

To qualify for the Managing Director of Strategy position at Leading Educators, candidates should have 8-10 years of experience in strategy, operations, or organizational management, with at least 5 years in senior leadership roles. A proven track record in developing and implementing strategies that align with mission-driven goals, exceptional project management skills, and outstanding relationship management capabilities are essential.

Operational excellence at Leading Educators encompasses effective resource allocation, efficient processes, clear communication, and leadership that prioritizes results. As the Managing Director of Strategy, you'll focus on ensuring projects are well-managed and executed sustainably while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.

The Managing Director of Strategy position at Leading Educators requires up to 30% travel. This includes national travel for organizational retreats, board meetings, programming events, and donor engagements. Most of the work will be done remotely, so having a home office in the U.S. is necessary, along with the flexibility to travel as needed.

The Managing Director of Strategy role at Leading Educators is unique because it combines strategic thinking with meaningful mission-driven work in education. You're not just managing projects; you're making a real impact on teachers and students' lives. Plus, working with a dedicated team focused on equity and continuous growth allows for personal and professional fulfillment.

When approaching strategic planning, I believe in collaboration and inclusivity. I engage various stakeholders to gain diverse perspectives and ensure alignment with the organization's mission. I also prioritize data analysis and performance tracking to evaluate outcomes and inform adjustments.

In my previous role, I led a project that implemented a new framework for teacher training across multiple schools. I coordinated teams, ensured clear communication, and engaged stakeholders. The project met its objectives ahead of schedule and resulted in improved teacher performance metrics.

Handling resistance to change requires empathy and transparent communication. I would listen to team concerns, provide clear information on the benefits of the change, and involve them in the process. Building a culture that embraces change often mitigates resistance.

I ensure alignment across departments by fostering frequent communication, organizing inter-departmental meetings, and encouraging collaborative projects. Establishing shared goals and accountability mechanisms helps keep everyone on the same page and focused on our strategic priorities.

I rely on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) relevant to the objectives of the initiative. This may include qualitative feedback, quantitative data, and organizational impact measurements. Regular assessment allows for timely adjustments and ensures we stay on track.

I have substantial experience engaging diverse stakeholders, including board members, funders, and community partners. I prioritize relationship-building and active communication to align their interests with our organizational goals, which fosters long-term collaboration.

Promoting continuous improvement involves creating safe spaces for feedback, encouraging innovation, and recognizing team contributions. I advocate for regular reflection sessions where teams can discuss what worked, what didn’t, and how we can adjust our strategies.

My leadership style is collaborative and transformational. I believe in empowering team members, fostering open communication, and encouraging innovative thinking. Leading with trust and support contributes to a positive and productive working environment.

For effective internal communication, I advocate for transparency and regular updates across all levels. I integrate various communication channels, such as emails, newsletters, and team meetings, to ensure vital information reaches everyone, and encourage feedback to continuously improve our methods.

I am passionate about the education sector because it directly influences the future of our society. Empowering teachers and creating equitable opportunities for students can lead to transformative change. Being part of a mission-driven organization aligns perfectly with my values and motivates me every day.