Summer Search is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director to lead its Boston region. This full-time hybrid role offers a competitive starting salary of $180,000+ and provides an opportunity to drive meaningful impact in youth development, education, and social equity.
With an application deadline of May 1, 2026, this role is ideal for senior leaders passionate about empowering underserved youth and building equitable systems for long-term success.
About Summer Search
Since 1990, Summer Search has supported young people—particularly those from underserved and first-generation backgrounds—through the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood.
The organization focuses on:
- Mentorship and long-term coaching
- Experiential learning opportunities
- College and career readiness
- Building resilience and leadership skills
Through its “No Ceilings” philosophy, Summer Search helps students unlock their potential, overcome systemic barriers, and create pathways to economic mobility and purposeful lives.
Overview of the Executive Director Role
The Executive Director (ED) will lead the Boston region, which currently serves:
- 400 high school students
- 600 post-secondary participants
Reporting to the Chief Impact Officer, the ED will be responsible for setting strategic direction, ensuring program excellence, and driving fundraising success. This role requires a balance of vision, execution, and relationship-building to strengthen both local and national impact.
Key Responsibilities
The Executive Director will oversee several critical areas:
Strategic Leadership & Fundraising
- Develop and implement the overall strategy for the Boston region.
- Lead a $3.7 million annual fundraising goal.
- Cultivate relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
- Partner with the Board of Directors to expand visibility and philanthropic support.
Financial Management
- Oversee budgeting and financial planning in collaboration with the national finance team.
- Ensure responsible resource allocation aligned with strategic priorities.
- Maintain transparency, accountability, and long-term financial sustainability.
Board Relations & Governance
- Work closely with the Board Chair and board members to ensure effective governance.
- Support board recruitment, onboarding, and engagement.
- Encourage active participation in fundraising and advocacy efforts.
Program Excellence
- Ensure high-quality programming across mentoring, student recruitment, and post-secondary success.
- Use data and performance metrics to evaluate impact and drive improvements.
- Translate program outcomes into compelling stories for stakeholders and donors.
Team Leadership
- Lead a Boston-based team of 18 staff members.
- Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing work culture.
- Support leadership development and accountability across the team.
External Engagement & Advocacy
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for Summer Search Boston.
- Build relationships with civic leaders, policymakers, and community partners.
- Advocate for youth mentorship and educational equity through public engagement.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The organization is seeking a strategic, results-driven leader who combines vision with execution. Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- 10+ years of leadership experience in nonprofit, education, or youth development sectors
- Proven success in fundraising, donor engagement, and partnership building
- Strong financial and operational management skills
- Experience leading high-performing teams and fostering inclusive workplaces
- Ability to align diverse stakeholders around shared goals
Additional qualities include:
- Strategic thinking and data-driven decision-making
- Strong coaching and people management skills
- Accountability and follow-through
- Adaptability in evolving environments
- Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills
Work Environment and Location
This is a hybrid position based in Boston, requiring:
- At least three days per week in the office (Jamaica Plain)
- Up to two days of remote work weekly
- Occasional evening and weekend commitments for events
- Limited travel to national convenings (up to four times per year)
Compensation and Benefits
Summer Search offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being and growth:
- Starting salary of $180,000+
- Medical insurance with up to 90% employer contribution
- Dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- Generous paid time off, including:
- 15 vacation days
- 10 sick days
- 18 holidays (including a winter break closure)
- Monthly “Refresh Fridays” (paid day off)
- Four-week paid sabbatical after five years
- Professional development and training opportunities
Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
Summer Search is deeply committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. The organization values diverse perspectives and strives to create a workplace where all individuals feel respected, supported, and empowered.
This commitment extends to its programs, ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have access to transformative opportunities.
How to Apply
This executive search is managed by NRG Consulting Group. Candidates can direct inquiries to the recruitment team and submit applications for consideration.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted by May 1, 2026.
Why This Role Matters
The Executive Director position at Summer Search Boston represents a powerful opportunity to influence the lives of hundreds of young people. By combining strategic leadership with community engagement, the successful candidate will help shape a future where all students—regardless of background—can achieve their full potential.
For experienced leaders seeking purpose-driven work with measurable impact, this role offers both challenge and fulfillment in a mission-centered environment.
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