Location
Chicago, IL preferred, but not required
Reporting Relationship
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors
ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
The African Women’s Development Fund USA (AWDF USA) is a 501c(3) organization created to raise visibility and financial support in the United States for The African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) based in Accra, Ghana. AWDF is a grant-making organization that supports women’s organizations across the continent of Africa. Over the past 10 years, AWDF has made grants totalling more than $16M US to 800 women’s organizations in over 43 African countries. Please see africlub.net/awdf for more information.
This is a new position and the first paid position of AWDF USA. Prior to this time, the work of AWDF USA has been done by volunteers and a short-term consultant. This position will be supported by a part-time bookkeeper and administrative assistant.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
AWDF USA seeks an Executive Director (the “ED”) that will enable the organization to be strategic and influential in a rapidly changing and demanding global environment. The ED is responsible for creating and advancing AWDF USA’s mission and vision. The ED is also responsible for the overall management of AWDF USA and the implementation of its policies. This individual reports directly to the Board of Directors and is responsible for keeping the Board engaged and informed so that they can fulfill the governance responsibilities entrusted to them. Specifically, the ED will be responsible for Fundraising, Marketing, Finance and Administration, Management and Leadership, Communications and External Relationships, and Board Relations.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate will have a strong track record of proven leadership ability and be capable of juggling many priority projects working independently. This individual should possess the capacity to assess, analyze and design strategic organizational structures, programs and processes and handle the organization’s day-to-day operations.
The ideal candidate will have an understanding of the challenges facing start-up global organizations and possess the creative vision to address these challenges effectively. The ED must be a strong decision-maker, facilitator, inspiring leader, and passionate advocate who can effect change where it is needed.
Specific previous experiences and qualifications include:
EDUCATION
An undergraduate degree is required. A graduate degree in a relevant field of study such as global/international affairs or development, women’s/gender studies, human rights, law, non-profit management, international business, or MBA is highly preferred.
COMPENSATION
A competitive compensation package will be offered to attract outstanding candidates
To apply for this position, please send a letter of interest, resume and contact information for 3 references to secy.awdfusa@gmail or to AWDF USA at 122 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1850 Chicago, IL 60603 by 5pm CST on April 1, 2011.