EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE MALIBU EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Malibu Education Foundation, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the educational experience of Malibu students, is searching for its first-ever Executive Director. This individual will lead a startup organization focused on supporting Malibu public schools. We are looking for someone with a blend of professional expertise and personal passion for this unique leadership opportunity in Malibu, California.

Position Description

The Executive Director of the Malibu Education Foundation (MEF) will be responsible for guiding the organization's strategic vision, planning, and day-to-day operations. This role involves managing the entire fundraising process, from identifying potential donors to securing contributions and maintaining donor relationships. The Executive Director will develop an inclusive fundraising strategy targeting Malibu public school parents, the local community, corporate partners, alumni, and supporters of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD). Additionally, this position includes building and overseeing various fundraising initiatives such as the annual fund, corporate partnerships, planned giving programs, and endowment campaigns.

In accordance with MEF Board directives, the Executive Director will manage the organization's budget and collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including the SMMUSD Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and relevant district staff. This position will also engage with the School Board, Principals, and district leaders of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), demonstrating sensitivity to the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, and special education needs within Malibu public schools.

Reporting Structure

Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will have the opportunity to shape the organization's future staffing needs as it transitions from a startup to a mature nonprofit. This individual will work closely with the Board's Executive Committee on all operational aspects, including fundraising strategies, event planning, financial management, and community engagement. The Executive Director will collaborate with the Executive Committee to develop staffing plans, organizational charts, job descriptions, and lead the recruitment process for prospective staff members.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead a comprehensive fundraising program, including donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for individual and major gift donors, corporate partnerships, planned giving, and events.

2. Develop and execute an annual fundraising campaign.

3. Supervise the organization's annual fundraising event(s).

4. Establish and nurture an individual major giving program.

5. Implement and grow a planned giving program.

6. Manage naming opportunities for SMMUSD spaces in Malibu schools.

7. Oversee the Foundation's financial activities and assets, including endowments.

8. Collaborate with interns and volunteers to create marketing strategies and materials.

9. Identify and implement a donor database system.

10. Explore passive income opportunities.

11. Foster positive relationships with all segments of SMMUSD and the Malibu community.

12. Work with district and PTA leaders to prioritize fundraising needs.

13. Recruit, hire, mentor, and develop MEF staff.

14. Fulfill other duties as required.

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

2. Successful fundraising and development experience, including personal solicitation, proposal development, and event management.

3. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with Board members and volunteers.

4. Familiarity with fundraising best practices, including prospect "moves management."

5. Proven success in securing major gifts for nonprofit organizations.

6. Financial acumen, including budgeting.

7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with public speaking experience.

8. Proficiency in fundraising database management and MS Office.

9. Diligent, self-motivated, and passionate about mission-driven work.

10. Strong attention to detail and multitasking abilities.

11. Ability to remain composed under pressure.

12. Knowledge of relevant regulations and laws.

13. Availability for evening and weekend commitments.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Previous Executive Director experience with a K-12 education foundation or similar nonprofit.

2. Track record of building and managing successful fundraising programs.

3. Familiarity with the Malibu community.

4. Experience in public education or working with public institutions.

5. Coursework and/or training in business, nonprofit administration, marketing, or related areas.

6. Master's degree in a relevant field.

About the Malibu Education Foundation

Founded in 2024, the Malibu Education Foundation is committed to supporting Malibu public schools by enriching curriculum and programming for students. We aim to establish a robust annual fund, major gifts program, and endowed funds to enhance K-12 education in all Malibu public schools. The Executive Director will lead these efforts and develop the necessary resources for our organization's success.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our fundraising mission. We are dedicated to assembling a diverse team with varied backgrounds and perspectives to advance our mission effectively.

For more information, please visit malibueducationfoundation.org.

Compensation:

Base salary of $67,000–$72,000, plus benefits.

The Executive Director is also eligible for an annual performance bonus of up to 20% of base salary, based on the achievement of fundraising and organizational goals set in collaboration with the Board of Directors.

Compensation will be reviewed annually by the Board and may be adjusted based on performance, fundraising outcomes, and organizational capacity.

This is a hybrid role with an expectation to be on site in Malibu 2–3 days per week. All applications will be reviewed promptly and held in strict confidence.

To Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications, experiences, and interest in the role to treasurer@malibueducationfoundation.org.  

Thank you for considering this leadership opportunity with the Malibu Education Foundation—we look forward to reviewing your application.