Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

The Massachusetts Education and Career Opportunities, Inc. (MassEdCO) Board of Directors is seeking applicants for the position of Chief Executive Officer. By January 13th, qualified applicants are encouraged to email their letter of intent, resume, and the names of three references to:

Recruitment@massedco.org

MassEdCO is one of the largest providers of college and career readiness services in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, serving more than 14,000 clients annually. MassEdCO provides targeted services, through a network of service sites, to both youth and adults and is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals who are experts in the field of postsecondary access, education and training. As a Worcester, Massachusetts based organization, with a far-reaching mission to assist economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals with career and education pathways, MassEdCO’s services are provided free of charge through the support of our dedicated team of professionals. MassEdCO's FY25 operating budget of $4.3 is primarily derived from TRIO and GEAR UP grant awards funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the MA Department of Higher Education.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MassEdCO reports to the Board of Directors and is vested with all the powers and duties delegated by the Board of Directors. The CEO is responsible for the oversight of all programs and services and the execution of all policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors, in furtherance of MassEdCO’s mission.

With the approaching retirement of MassEdCO’s current CEO, the qualified successor will continue to build on the existing strong and steady leadership, while contributing to an organization deeply rooted in the central Massachusetts community with growing recognition across the Commonwealth.

We are seeking a passionate and dynamic CEO with a strong background in nonprofit fiscal management, exceptional leadership skills, and a commitment to our mission. This role requires strategic thinking, excellent communication abilities, and a collaborative spirit.

Essential Functions:

· Serves as project director and principal writer for several US Department of Education TRIO grants which currently include Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) and Educational Talent Search (ETS) programs.

· Serves as a key partner with the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) and its GEAR UP project.

· Ensures compliance with all federal and state guidelines and project regulations associated with the operation of all federal and state funded programs, including data collection and submission of Annual Performance Reports (APR).

· Works closely with the Board of Directors and its Finance Committee, along with MassEdCO’s CFO and Finance Manager, to develop and oversee the strategic plan, annual budget, annual audits, investments, employee benefits programs, and employee recruitment and retention strategies.

· Supports organization-wide commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

· Oversees the senior management team and professional development programs for MassEdCO staff.

· Coordinates overall branding and marketing efforts for the organization.

· Serves as primary spokesperson for MassEdCO to state and local agencies, organizations, and the general public.

Qualifications:

· Strong and successful grant writing experience, preferably with the US Department of Education, along with a full understanding of the accompanying federal regulations.

· Minimum of 5-10 years of progressively responsible leadership or management experience within the non-profit sector preferably serving low-income, first generation, historically underrepresented, and/or marginalized populations.

· Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and execution, financial analysis, and management.

· Experience in leading high-performing teams to achieve positive outcomes.

· Strong budgetary, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

· Past success working with a Board of Directors with the ability to cultivate existing board member relationships.

· Strong marketing and public relations experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive and passionate communicator with excellent interpersonal and multidisciplinary project skills.

· Knowledge of research on barriers to postsecondary education for this targeted population.

· Advanced degree, preferably an MBA or master’s degree in education, public administration, social work, or other relevant area.

Core Competencies:

· Visionary leader with significant presence and gravitas.

· Ability to attract, retain, and nurture staff dedicated to serving low-income, first-generation college-bound, historically underrepresented, and/or marginalized populations.

· Appreciation and support of a work-life balance for staff.

· Knowledge of and participation in grant procurements and execution.

· Basic understanding of how to build a strong financial platform for the organization.

· Understanding of the complexities of funding sources.

· Knowledge of basic accounting protocols and ability to review finances with CFO and others to build consensus around priorities and monitor ongoing expenditures.

· Willingness to be held accountable for the sustainability and overall financial health of the organization.

· Reliance on data to make key program and operational decisions.

· Ability to recruit and engage a strong board.

· Impartial and objective evaluation and assessment skills.

· Desire to create and/or maintain a culture rewarding outstanding performance.

· Effective communication in person and in writing with a variety of stakeholders and clients.

· Passion for serving as the public face of the organization.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the CEO and are not intended to be construed as a total list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Benefits & Compensation:

· $140,000 - $170,000, plus 10% 403b match. Salary commensurate with experience.

· MassEdCO also provides an attractive benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, FSA, life insurance, disability insurance, a student loan paydown program, and generous paid time off in addition to standard holidays.

Anticipated Start Date:

June 2025

At MassEdCO, we champion diversity, inclusion, and equity to foster an environment where every employee feels valued and respected.

Massachusetts Education & Career Opportunities, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. We base all employment decisions on each individual's capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetics, or any other protected status under the law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $140,000.00 - $170,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• Master's (Preferred)

Experience:

• leadership or management: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Worcester, MA 01608: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person