Executive Director (Santa Barbara)

WHAT WE DO

Founded in 1985, the Santa Barbara Education Foundation (SBEF) enriches the academic, artistic, and personal development of all students in the Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD). As the only education foundation serving all 21 schools and over 12,200 students, SBEF is uniquely positioned to bridge critical funding gaps and create a lasting, equitable impact.

SBEF inspires the community to support public education, focusing on providing opportunities for students facing additional challenges, such as those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged or English language learners. By funding programs like teacher grants, literacy initiatives, and music and arts education, SBEF ensures that students have access to essential learning opportunities. SBEF also proudly serves as the fiscal sponsor for 14 nonprofit organizations across the county.

Through strong partnerships with community partners, nonprofits, donors, educators, and businesses, SBEF enhances the quality of public education and builds a brighter future for the entire community. SBEF also administers its own signature programs.For a full list of programs and to learn more, visit : https : / / sbefoundation.org.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE

SBEF is governed by a 12-member Board of Directors, working in close partnership with four liaisons from the School District. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, SBEF has adopted a new strategic plan to build on its legacy of championing public education since 1985. The plan is designed to provide equitable and inclusive opportunities that ensure student success.

In addition to supporting the arts, over the next five years, SBEF's priorities will include literacy, math, student engagement, and Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI). SBEF will build on its current capacity center with the following core strategies.

• Unite for Greater Impact : Align community efforts to deliver targeted responses to student needs.
• Turn Gaps Into Growth : Mobilize private philanthropy and community support to bridge critical education gaps where public funding falls short.
• Expand Proven Solutions : Ensure that supported programs are effective, scalable, and sustainable.

The strategic plan also emphasizes maintaining strong connections with the SBUSD and our community partners. By engaging in proactive collaboration and regular communication, SBEF will align its programming with district priorities to remain responsive to the evolving educational landscape and best serve the needs of students.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

LOCATION

The SBEF office is located at 1528 Chapala St, Suite 308, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

POSITION SUMMARY

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a philanthropic and direct service organization. Reporting directly to the Board Chair and working closely with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will leverage SBEFs strong reputation and legacy of success to shape future growth and amplify its impact. The Executive Director will focus on key strategic areas, including staff and board development, strategic plan implementation, and donor relations. Overseeing an annual operating budget of $2.7M, the Executive Director will build, lead, mentor, and inspire the SBEF team of 5, when fully staffed, including 2 direct reports : the Program Manager and Development Officer.

Year One Priorities

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Management

Development & Fundraising

Financial Oversight & Planning

BACKGROUND PROFILE