Overview
Managing Director – Summer Science Program
Department: SSPI Program Operations
Reporting to: Chief Program Officer (CPO)
Schedule: Full-time, exempt
Location: Remote
Travel: 25-30 days per year
Salary: $150,000 annually
SSP International, Inc. (SSPI) is a non-profit organization focused on excellence in science education. Since 1959, SSPI’s Summer Science Program offers immersive summer research experiences that foster curiosity and a lifelong passion for discovery. SSPI is committed to collaboration, a diverse and inclusive environment, and empowering participants, alumni, staff, and stakeholders. More information at:
Summary
Under the direction of the Chief Program Officer, the Managing Director of Summer Science Program will be responsible for the strategic development and implementation of SSPI’s Summer Science Program. The Managing Director will oversee program operations, foster strategic partnerships, and ensure programmatic alignment with SSPI’s mission and goals. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of STEM education, a commitment to equity in learning, and strong leadership skills to scale and enhance impact.
Success in this role includes delivering efficient operations with positive student outcomes, growing strategic partnerships, advancing initiatives to increase access for first-generation students, continuously improving the program through data-informed evaluation, and prudent stewardship of budgets and resources.
Responsibilities
- Program Operation Leadership: Oversee the operational aspects of SSPI’s Summer Science Program, including managing and allocating financial and non-financial resources to meet program objectives.
- Leadership and supervision: Directly supervise the Senior Director of Academic Affairs, the Senior Director of Program Operations, the Senior Director of Student Success, and indirectly supervise their teams.
- Innovation and improvement: Lead program innovation and continuous improvement efforts based on research, data, and community feedback.
- Culture and collaboration: Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and impact within the program team and across departments.
- External relations: Play a key role in fundraising and building external relationships to support SSPI’s mission and programs.
- Staff development: Oversee professional development and mentorship of Directors and staff on the Summer Science Program team.
- Represent SSPI: Represent the Summer Science Program at national conferences, board meetings, and in the media.
- Program Development: Advise and provide action plans to expand the program without compromising academic or cultural quality or fidelity.
- Site and partnerships: Establish partnerships with external organizations and academic institutions; identify and evaluate new sites for SSPI programs; develop MOUs with host campuses and cultivate relationships with university administrations and faculty.
- Board reporting: Prepare ad-hoc, quarterly, and annual board reports reflecting efforts and progress.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience within nonprofit organizations or foundations, with at least 5 years in education program management at a senior leadership level (e.g., Managing Director, Executive Director, VP, COO).
- Proven track record in managing personnel, logistics, and program portfolios.
- Experience leading teams of at least 10 full-time professional staff and driving outcomes impacting 700+ students.
- Expertise in strategic planning, program development, and operational team management.
- Experience in grant funding, budget development and oversight, and resource allocation.
- Understanding of STEM education principles, curriculum development, and program evaluation.
- Familiarity with access and equity issues for historically underrepresented populations in STEM fields.
- Exceptional leadership abilities to oversee academic programs and manage staff, particularly in remote environments.
- Ability to create and implement strategic plans for expanding and enhancing academic programs.
- Experience planning, developing, and implementing processes and protocols.
- Ability to build and maintain partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Willingness to travel for meetings and staff gatherings (approximately 10-15% nationwide, roughly 5-6 weeks per year).
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently in a fully remote environment, managing time, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines while staying responsive and communicative.
- Demonstrates commitment to SSPI’s Mission and Values in daily work; performs other duties as assigned.
Working Conditions
The working conditions described are representative of those required to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
- Constantly operates a computer.
- Ability to observe details at close range and adjust focus.
- Ability to communicate information clearly; travel to in-person meetings as needed (approximately 5-6 weeks per year).
Clearance Requirements
- Authorization to work in the United States.
- Background clearance.