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Job Description
Location:
Utica, NY Category:
Staff Job Type:
Full Time Exempt Posted On:
Mon Jun 29 2026
Job Description:
Position Summary:
The Executive Director (ED) will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for YSLPP programs, budget, staff and execution of its mission.
Responsibilities:
Oversee all internal and external aspects of program. Provide leadership to program, staff and students. Hire all program staff for Utica University. Ensure ongoing local programmatic excellence and rigorous program evaluation; quality communications systems; timelines and resources needed to achieve strategic goals. Required attendance and on-site leadership at key YSLPP events, including the annual Washington, D.C. Trip, Camping Trip, Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) conferences, and other major program activities requiring Executive Director presence. Proactively cultivate and secure new donors, funding opportunities, and strategic connections that benefit both YSLPP and Utica University, supporting long-term program sustainability and growth. Actively represent YSLPP at community events, meetings, and local initiatives to build and strengthen partnerships that enhance program visibility, student opportunities, and community engagement. Oversee fundraising, marketing and partnerships in coordination with appropriate University offices. Deepen and refine all aspects of communications?from web presence to external relations -- with the goal of creating a stronger image. Manage YSLPP budget and LPP contract. Actively engage and energize YSLPP alumni, partnering organizations and funders. Develop, maintain, and support a strong Advisory Board; build board involvement with strategic direction for ongoing local operations and national recognition. Responsible for working with supervisor and other team members to achieve successful results on all established individual and departmental goals and key performance indicators. Take an active role in the development of the YSLPP's strategic and operational plans. Work closely with supervisor to develop and implement operational goals that support success. May perform other related duties as assigned.
Job Requirements:
Education and Experience:
Master's degree required with at least 5 years of increasingly responsible senior management experience Experience with public school districts helpful
Skills/Abilities:
Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive and passionate communicator with excellent interpersonal skills. Work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of people. Relate to children of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. A strong commitment to diversity and work continually to enhance diversity of our students, faculty, and staff Proven leadership of an outcomes-based organization and staff. Strong marketing, public relations, and fundraising experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures. Action-oriented, entrepreneurial, adaptable, and innovative. Commitment to quality programs and experience with data-driven program evaluation. Multi-tasking and prioritizing Creative problem solving Computer skills helpful. Possession of a valid U.S. driver's license that will meet insurance company rules and regulations for driving underwriting criteria. Must be able to work flexible hours if necessary.
Supervisory Responsibility:
Assistant Director Site Staff Academic Coordinator Administrative Assistant Social Workers/Counselors Driving Responsibility:
This position may occasionally involve travel using a University-owned or University-rented vehicle.
Additional Information:
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position EEO/AA Statement Utica University is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and creating a welcoming work environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to veteran status, disability, citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, or protected status under applicable local, state, or federal law. Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans Utica University is a comprehensive, independent, private institution founded in 1946 to offer options for higher education study to veterans returning from the Second World War. More than seventy years since veterans returned from WWII, this tradition of serving veterans is still held in high regard here at Utica University, and we are proud to welcome veterans as students and as valued members of our faculty and professional staff. Apply Online