Words Without Borders is pleased to work with DRG to conduct this search. BACKGROUND The Organization Words Without Borders (wordswithoutborders.org) is the premier destination for a global literary conversation. Founded in 2003
our mission is to cultivate global awareness by expanding access to international writing and creating a bridge between readers
writers
and translators. Our award-winning digital magazine offers unparalleled access to the world’s literary voices. These include writers like Olga Tokarczuk
Abdulrazak Gurnah
and Han Kang
all published on WWB before they became international sensations
as well as hundreds of new and rising talents. We are committed to centering writers in indigenous
endangered
and other world languages that are too often marginalized. Our education program
WWB Campus (wwb-campus.org)
brings global literature into hundreds of classrooms
offering free access to stories from around the world
multimedia curricular resources that bring literature to life
and professional support for educators. WWB organizes free virtual and in-person events with international authors
translators
and critics
providing a space for readers to engage directly with the perspectives we publish. Our fellowship and grants programs provide opportunities for emerging professionals in the field of literary translation. The Position Words Without Borders seeks an internationally connected
strategic
and visionary leader to shepherd the organization into its next phase of growth and impact. Building on two decades of steady progress
the Executive Director will report to WWB’s board of directors and will help WWB meet its strategic goals while sustainably growing its financial resources. Now in its third decade
WWB is well positioned to grow internationally in the coming years. One of the first tasks for the Executive Director will be to collaborate with board and staff to create the organization’s next strategic plan
capitalizing on opportunities to expand its international readership and its education program
and communicating this vision to its diverse stakeholders. The Executive Director will oversee WWB’s day-to-day operations
including all fundraising activity
financial management and planning
and program oversight. They will lead the three-person development team
playing an active role in expanding WWB’s institutional support and cultivating individual donors. The Executive Director will also work with board and staff to plan and execute the organization’s annual Gala
which will take place on October 30th
2024. Launching a capital campaign to create WWB’s first strategic reserve fund will be a key goal within the Executive Director’s first two years. Internally
the Executive Director will facilitate a culture of learning
innovation
collaboration
and excellence among the nine-member staff
freelance editors
and twenty-member board of directors
building a strong sense of community and shared purpose. They will strive to foster work-life balance and expand WWB’s equitable HR practices
while providing opportunities for mentorship and professional development to staff members. As WWB’s remote team expands outside the US
establishing practices that help optimize collaboration across a decentralized workplace will be key. ROLE OVERVIEW pment (35%) Strategize and expand upon WWB’s fundraising pipeline
both by stewarding existing funding opportunities and identifying new ones (including individuals
foundations
and corporate) Plan and execute annual Gala and smaller cultivation events Oversee two annual fundraising appeals Engage board of directors in fundraising activities Support development staff Administration and Finance (20%) Manage WWB’s budget and finances
including approving payments to vendors Oversee work of freelance bookkeeper in the preparation of quarterly financial reports Interface with third-party financial and office tools including QuickBooks
Bill
PayPal
Stripe
Dropbox Oversee annual report and quarterly impact updates Work with independent auditor in the preparation of annual statements and 990 Provide guidance and mentorship to staff members
fostering their professional growth and development Ensure that staff members feel valued
supported
and empowered to contribute their best to the organization Establish clear performance expectations and goals for staff members
providing regular feedback and coaching to support their growth and development Program Management and Development (20%) Work with program staff to set annual and longer-term strategies for WWB’s digital magazine
education program
events
communications
and fellowships. Oversee and evaluate all programs to ensure alignment with organizational impact goals. Seek out opportunities to expand impact through new program partnerships and initiatives. Board Engagement and Relations: 10% Oversee the coordination of full-board and committee meetings and ensure that members are provided with regular financial and programmatic updates. Schedule and attend quarterly meetings of all board committees. Develop and implement organizational strategies in collaboration with the board and staff. Partner with the board to identify
cultivate
recruit
and retain board members who are highly engaged and willing to leverage their personal and professional networks and resources. Human Resources/Personnel: 10% Work with third-party payroll provider to onboard and pay employees
secure employee benefits. Oversee hiring
including implementation and development of equitable hiring and compensation practices. Provide opportunities for mentorship and professional development to staff members. Foster inclusive
supportive
and collaborative workplace culture
where staff members feel valued
supported
and empowered to contribute their best to the organization. Provide guidance and mentorship to staff members
fostering their professional growth and development. Establish clear performance expectations and goals for staff members
providing regular feedback and coaching to support their growth and development. External engagement and service to the field: 5% Present WWB at festivals and literary events. Attend convenings and periodic educational trainings or webinars. Engage in peer learning
mentorship
and networking with other literary organizations. Author op-eds
contribute to relevant articles that advocate for literary translation. THE IDEAL CANDIDATE Mission Alignment: Deep passion for and commitment to the mission of Words Without Borders. This could include experience in international cultural organizations
education
and/or publishing. Knowledge of at least one language beyond English strongly encouraged. Proven Operational Abilities & Financial Acumen Strong understanding of nonprofit financial management within a growing organization
including budgeting and fiscal oversight to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Strong organizational skills and judgment; ability to prioritize work
manage time and multiple priorities
and meet deadlines. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
including grant-writing experience
and engaging presentation skills. Comfortable with public speaking
articulating the mission of WWB
and being the face of an organization. Strong attention to detail. Proficiency with Google suite; experience with online bookkeeping and payment programs desired. Excellent Relationship-Building Skills & Demonstrated Success as Fundraiser Experience in fundraising
major gifts
and donor stewardship. Excellent people management skills that encourage creativity
collaboration
and growth with a range of work styles. Track record of building relationships with board members or donors. A Visionary with a Strategic Mindset Ability to envision future growth
leverage opportunities
and translate vision into strategy. Past participation in creating or implementing a strategic plan. Work Environment WWB offers a remote work environment with a semi-flexible work schedule. The Executive Director should be able to travel easily to New York City for board meetings and events approximately six times per year. WWB’s downtown Brooklyn office and meeting space is available to the ED as needed.