Associate Executive Director (AED)

Position Summary: The Associate Executive Director (AED) will work closely with the Executive Director (ED) to co-lead and manage a team of directors, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic initiatives. The AED is responsible for overseeing various projects, attending key meetings, and representing the organization at internal and external events. This role requires strong leadership, people management, and project management skills. Additionally, the AED will undergo a mentorship period with the ED to ensure a smooth transition into the role and provide ongoing development opportunities.

You must be located in San Diego.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management : Co-lead and manage the directors alongside the Executive Director, ensuring collaboration across departments and policy enforcement.

Strategic Planning : Support the ED in developing and implementing organizational strategies to achieve long-term goals.

Project Management : Oversee the successful execution of key organizational projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and budget.

Meeting Attendance : Actively participate in Office of the Executive Director (OED) meetings, director-level meetings, and other sessions to ensure cross-departmental coordination.

Event Participation : Represent the organization at relevant events, including networking and community partner events.

Operational Oversight : Assist the ED in day-to-day operations, providing guidance and support to department heads.

The AED will undergo a mentorship period with the previous AED and Executive Director, where they will receive tailored guidance and support to ensure they are well-prepared to lead effectively within the organization.

This period will focus on developing leadership capabilities, organizational knowledge, and strategic management skills.

Mentorship will include regular one-on-one meetings, shadowing the ED in high-level decision-making processes, and receiving feedback to foster personal and professional growth.

This role is ideal for a leader who excels in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving organizational success through strategic management and people leadership.

This role is ideal for a leader who excels in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving organizational success through strategic management and people leadership.

REQUIREMENTS

Leadership Experience : Proven track record of leading teams.

People Management : Strong experience in managing and developing staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Project Management : Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organizational and time management skills.

Strategic Thinking : Ability to contribute to high-level strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Problem-Solving : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to seek out problems, think critically, and adapt to changing circumstances.

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

OTTA United is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future.

OTTA United values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission.

Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind:

Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you.

We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike.

We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs.

Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization!

Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team.

We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo.

We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings.