Springfield Education Foundation

Lead the foundation's strategic initiatives, cultivate community and donor relationships, and oversee organizational operations to support educational programs. | Proven leadership in nonprofit or educational settings, experience in fundraising, stakeholder management, and strategic planning. | The Springfield Education Foundation is seeking an Executive Director who, in partnership with the SEF Board of Directors, will advance the mission of the SEF by generating and increasing financial support and enhancing community involvement. Located in Springfield, OR, the SEF is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization working in alignment with Springfield Public Schools to strengthen our schools, helping to ensure our children are solid learners with the knowledge and skills to be productive citizens now and in the future. (see https://www.springfieldeducationfoundation.org/about/) The SEF was created to advance student opportunities and support educational programs that enhance, enrich and promote student learning and achievement. We solicit and provide direct financial support from individuals, corporations and foundations to Springfield students and classrooms. This support is becoming more critical as public (and state) funds for public education continue to decrease. Since 1994, over 2.6 million dollars has been invested through the Foundation to enrich student learning experiences. The Executive Director position is responsible for identifying, soliciting, and cultivating relationships with new donors, retaining and building upon the existing donor base, and creating and implementing strategic development objectives. The Executive Director directs public-facing communication for the SEF and cultivates visibility for the organization throughout the SPS District and the community. The position includes oversight of staff positions, regular collaboration with the SPS District, and direction of day to day operation of the organization. The Executive Director reports to the SEF Board of Directors. Interested applicants can learn more about SEF, the Executive Director position (including qualifications and responsibilities), and the application process at https://www.springfieldeducationfoundation.org/job-openings/. Posting Begins: December 2025, open until filled Application Review: First review of applications will begin January 11, 2026 How to Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to Hiring@SEFLane.org, as well as the answers to the following questions (500 words or less per answer): • Strategic Vision & Implementation: Question: “The Springfield Education Foundation works to empower student success through community engagement. Our focus is to support innovative programs and initiatives in order to enhance educational opportunities, encourage innovation, and support student well being. How would you, as the Executive Director, prioritize and lead the execution of this plan while ensuring staff and board alignment and maximum community impact?” • Fundraising & Development: Question: “The role requires implementing the Foundation’s fundraising goals across individual giving, events, corporate giving, and grants. Describe your most successful experience in developing a ‘well-rounded revenue structure,’ and how you would apply those principles to grow the SEF’s funding base to expand its grantmaking.” • Stakeholder Relations & Communications: Question: “The Executive Director serves as a key spokesperson, requiring them to ‘build constructive relationships with all SEF stakeholders (schools, donors, community)’ and work ‘cooperatively with the Springfield School District.’ How have you successfully navigated complex relationships with both an associated public institution (like a school district) and an independent Board of Directors, ensuring a coordinated and effective message? The cover letter should address why the applicant is interested in this position and describe experience relevant to the four primary job responsibilities. References may be requested after the initial application process. Applications and questions can be directed to Hiring@SEFLane.org. The Springfield Education Foundation recognizes and embraces the diversity and worth of all individuals and groups and their roles in society. SEF does not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities, programs, or employment. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients. Pay: $60,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year Benefits: • Health insurance • Paid time off Work Location: In person