AAJA kicks off search for next executive director

The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) plays a vital role in journalistic leadership and excellence. Since its founding in 1981, AAJA and its 1,500 plus members across the United States and Asia, have been at the forefront of change – setting a standard for accountability, diversity and innovation in the journalism industry. AAJA is committed to ensuring fair and accurate news coverage of communities of color, particularly Asian American and Pacific Islander, and promoting diversity in newsrooms and in other media. AAJA is headquartered in San Francisco, but we encourage candidates outside of the Bay Area, particularly in major metropolitan areas, to also apply. 

POSITION OVERVIEW

AAJA is seeking a strategic, entrepreneurial, and visionary leader to build upon the organization’s strong foundation while growing the organization operationally and programmatically. The Executive Director (ED) reports to AAJA’s governing board and ensures the implementation of AAJA’s growth strategy and day-to-day operations. This includes revenue and program development, managing a cohesive team of staff, consultants, and volunteers. The ideal candidate will have proven success in collaborating with diverse stakeholders, fundraising, and strategic planning. The ED is expected to travel at least once to twice a quarter.

Organization Strategy and Leadership

  • Develop and execute short- and long-term strategies to grow AAJA’s operating budget and its membership.
  • Partners with the Board and staff to implement a strategic plan to continue growing the organization while maintaining effective operations.
  • Work with staff to support and launch innovative training, journalism and civic engagement programs.
  • Identify and integrate new technologies to enhance the organization’s operations.
  • Deepen and strengthen relationships with the Asian American/Pacific Islander community and other journalism/media organizations.

Resource Development and Financial Management 

  • Identify new sponsors and grow ongoing partnerships.
  • Cultivate new relationships with foundations, corporations, and high net-worth individuals to secure grants and donations.
  • Works with Board to develop and direct a fundraising strategy and plan, to ensure adequate and diversified funding including identifying funding priorities, researching funding sources, and strategies to approach funders.

Organization and Program Management

  • Work closely and collaboratively with AAJA’s governing board, advisory board, program directors, and chapter leaders to fulfill our mission and programming.
  • Oversee AAJA’s annual national convention and regional events, demonstrating excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet daily, weekly and monthly deadlines.
  • Communicate AAJA’s programs, initiatives and policies to members, funders and the broader public.
  • Manage, coach, and grow national staff to have ownership over their work, build a healthy working culture, and support them in new skills development.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Undergraduate degree required and 5 years of related experience including 2 years in senior leadership.
  • Strong financial acumen, fundraising, grant development and management.
  • Passion for working to advance journalism and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Experience managing a local chapter/affiliate and/or national organization is preferred.
  • Experience working with journalists or the news industry and understanding of journalism’s core values and ethics are preferred, but not a requirement.
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of people and ability to build rapport and connect with individuals at all levels.
  • Familiarity with e-mail newsletter, social media, video, and/or event marketing.
  • Must be an adept negotiator and spokesperson for AAJA.
  • Proven success in collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

Envision Consulting was retained by Asian American Journalists Association to conduct the search for their incoming Executive Director.

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