President

Position Overview
Public Education Forward (PEF) seeks a dynamic and visionary President to lead its mission-driven work advancing public education in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President serves as the chief executive officer responsible for strategic leadership, resource development, organizational management, and community engagement.

This role requires an entrepreneurial leader with a passion for education innovation, the ability to build strong partnerships, and a commitment to improving outcomes for all students.

About the Organization
Founded in 1989, PEF partners with Hamilton County Schools and the broader community to improve public education through innovative programming, strategic investment, and systemic support. The organization focuses on:

·         Teacher and Leadership Development: Helping build effective classroom and educational leadership in the belief these professionals have an exponential impact on their communities

·         Children Succeeding: Advancing high standards, strong curricula and career pathways, and effective use of technology

·         Families, Communities & Schools: Building meaningful partnerships to support student success

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

·         Lead and guide mission, vision, and long-term strategy

·         Recommend and implement short- and long-term goals

·         Monitor education trends and apply innovative strategies

Board & Governance

·         Partner with the Board of Directors

·         Support collaborative decision-making and governance

·         Keep the board informed about organizational performance, opportunities, and risks.

Program & Community Impact

·         Design, implement, and evaluate programs

·         Build community awareness and support

Partnerships & External Relations

·         Maintain relationships with schools, higher education, government, and donors

·         Serve as primary spokesperson

 

 

Fundraising & Resource Development

·         Direct fundraising and grant efforts

·         Steward financial resources

 

Operations & Financial Management

·         Develop and manage the budget

·         Ensure fiscal accountability

Staff Leadership

·         Build and lead an engaged, high-performing team

·         Conduct performance evaluations for senior leadership team

Qualifications
• Master’s degree preferred in a relevant field
• Minimum five years of senior leadership experience
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, program management, and finance
• Strong communication and strategic thinking skills
• Knowledge of public education systems

Personal Attributes
• Entrepreneurial and innovative
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Results-driven with attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills

Compensation & Benefits
PEF offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated leadership success, and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid leave.

Commitment to an Inclusive Workplace
PEF is committed to fostering a workplace culture grounded in respect, collaboration, and shared purpose. We believe our effectiveness is strengthened when a diverse group of individuals—bringing a broad range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds—works together in service of students, families and teachers in schools across Hamilton County.
Equal Opportunity Employer

PEF is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to fair, merit-based hiring and to maintaining a workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and grow.

How to Apply
Qualified candidates with a passion for advancing public education and a track record of effective leadership should send a resume and cover letter to Larry Stone, CFO, at [email protected].