A Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), or chief strategist, is an executive responsible for assisting the chief executive officer (CEO) with developing, communicating, executing, and sustaining corporate strategic initiatives. The CSO is a consultative role; part leader and part doer, with the responsibility of ensuring that execution of the strategy supports the strategy elements
CODERS expands access to high-quality science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics education for young people from diverse backgrounds. Based in Pasadena, the organization provides hands-on coding, robotics, engineering, AI and technology programs that help underserved K-12 students build technical skills, confidence, and pathways to future academic and career opportunities. Through small classes, project-based learning, and partnerships with schools and community organizations,
STEAM:
CODERS offers after-school programs, workshops, summer camps, and other educational experiences.
As STEAM:
CODERS enters its next chapter, the organization seeks an entrepreneurial Executive Director who can build on its strong reputation and programming while expanding fundraising, strengthening organizational systems, and deepening community partnerships.
ABOUT THE POSITION
Reporting to the Advisory Board, the Executive Director serves as
STEAM:
CODERS' chief executive and public ambassador. The Executive Director will lead organizational strategy, fundraising, community engagement, and program oversight while guiding the organization through sustainable growth. Key priorities include establishing a vision for the organization's future, diversifying revenue, cultivating corporate and individual donors, strengthening infrastructure, and increasing
STEAM:
CODERS' visibility in Pasadena and beyond.
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Organizational Leadership & Strategy Serve as the day-to-day leadership of
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CODERS, establishing organizational priorities, goals, and systems that position the organization for long-term sustainability. Support Board development, committee engagement, and strategic planning efforts that reflect the organization's mission, values, and aspirations for growth. Build organizational infrastructure, processes, and operational systems appropriate for a small and growing nonprofit. Keep the Board informed of organizational performance, emerging opportunities, and potential challenges. Fund Development & Financial Sustainability Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes foundations, corporations, major donors, individual giving, and special events. Cultivate, steward, and expand relationships with current and prospective donors, funders, and community investors. Partner with Community Initiatives and Board leadership on annual budgeting, financial planning, and financial reporting. Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources and maintain strong financial oversight. Community Engagement & External Relations Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for
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CODERS throughout the community. Build meaningful partnerships with school districts, colleges, technology companies, nonprofits, civic organizations, and community leaders. Increase community awareness of
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CODERS through networking, presentations, public events, and strategic communications. Cultivate relationships that create new opportunities for students, volunteers, and supporters. Program & Organizational Management Provide strategic oversight of all
STEAM:
CODERS programs, ensuring continued excellence, innovation, and measurable impact. Support staff in delivering engaging, equitable, and high-quality educational experiences. Monitor program outcomes and use data to inform continuous improvement. Recruit, develop, and retain talented staff and volunteers who are passionate about the organization's mission. Cultivate organizational and leadership skills for staff in support of workforce development. Ensure organizational policies, systems, and practices support effective program delivery.
QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate will bring many of the following qualifications: Demonstrated success in nonprofit leadership positions for a minimum of five (5) years, preferably during a period of organizational growth or transition. Proven fundraising success across multiple revenue streams, including grants, major gifts, corporate partnerships, and individual giving. Exceptional relationship-building skills with donors, community leaders, public agencies, and strategic partners. Experience developing and implementing organizational or strategic plans. Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and organizational financial oversight. Experience supervising and developing staff while fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Outstanding written, verbal, and public speaking skills. Spanish language skills are a plus. Passion for educational equity, youth development, and expanding opportunity for historically underserved communities. Familiarity with STEAM, education, or youth-serving organizations is preferred. Knowledge of Pasadena, Altadena, and the greater Los Angeles philanthropic and nonprofit community is an advantage.
WHY JOIN STEAM
CODERS? This is an opportunity to shape the future of a respected organization at an exciting point in its evolution. With a planned hand-off from a committed founder, the next Executive Director will inherit a strong programmatic foundation, a highly engaged Board, powerful community relationships, and a mission that changes the trajectory of young people's lives through tech education.
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CODERS is in a strong financial position and is fiscally sponsored by Community Initiatives, which provides administrative support, allowing the Executive Director to focus primarily on leadership, fund development, partnerships, strategic planning, and organizational growth. Tech education for underserved youth is one of our most timely issues, given the rapid changes in the tech sector, the adoption of AI, and the growing need to equip our youth for future challenges.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position is $140,000-$160,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. As a fiscally sponsored project of
Community Initiatives, STEAM:
CODERS offers a competitive benefits package through Community Initiatives, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, and paid time off in accordance with Community Initiatives' employee policies. This position offers a flexible work environment, with a combination of on-site and remote work based on organizational and programmatic needs. Envision Consulting is partnering with
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CODERS to conduct the search for their incoming Executive Director. Please direct all questions and communications about the role to Envision Consulting. Your cover letter and the application questions below serve as a professional writing sample. Applicants needing accommodation for any part of the application process may contact Envision Consulting at 626.714.7577 to request and arrange for assistance.
