Educational Foundation Executive Director & Program Manager

Position Summary:  Lead and manage strategic initiatives that promote accounting education and growth of the accounting talent pipeline in Colorado, including driving fundraising efforts to sustain and expand programs. This role works closely with the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, COCPA staff, educators, and stakeholders to advance scholarship programs, fundraising efforts, and student engagement initiatives, making a meaningful impact on the community and the future of the accounting profession.

Job Responsibilities

FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (Estimated 25% of role)

Lead, Manage, and Maintain Accountability for Strategy

• Collaborate with the Board and staff to develop and execute the Foundation’s mission-driven strategy using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)
• Provide focused leadership, set measurable goals, and ensure alignment with organizational priorities

Drive Fundraising and Donor Engagement

• Lead annual fundraising efforts (e.g., Colorado Gives Day, Battle of the Brains)
• Cultivate donor and sponsor relationships with a goal to grow contributions by 15%+ annually
• Ensure timely donor recognition and accurate recordkeeping

Manage Strategic Relationships & Promote Accounting Profession

• Represent the Foundation at public events, schools, and conferences
• Strengthen ties with Trustees, faculty, and community leaders to expand reach
• Promote the profession through student engagement and participation in career/networking events

Ensure Proper Governance, Compliance, & Financial Oversight

• Coordinate Board meetings, maintain records, and support compliance
• Manage budget preparation, financial monitoring, and reporting
• Oversee financial operations and regulatory filings in collaboration with COCPA Finance and external partners

PROGRAM MANAGER (Estimated 60% of role)

Administer Scholarship Programs

• Promote and manage annual merit and transfer scholarship processes in coordination with the COCPA Marketing Team
• Maintain scholarship software and ensure accurate tracking and fund distribution
• Support Trustees in recipient selection and maintain communication with awardees

Plan and Deliver Student Engagement and Development Initiatives

• Lead the Gold Key Award and mentorship programs, from planning to execution
• Build and support a network of student champions across Colorado accounting programs
• Promote COCPA student membership and support outreach at middle, high school, and college levels
• Organize sessions, events, and workshops to promote accounting careers, in collaboration with the Marketing Team

Create and Manage Student Resources

• Develop academic and career resources in partnership with Marketing and Operations teams
• Deliver presentations, manage social media engagement, and provide direct student support
• Source and distribute promotional materials to boost student participation
• Provide one-on-one support to students or volunteers as needed.

Design and Execute Faculty Development Initiatives

• Plan and implement the annual Accounting Educators Conference with faculty and Operations teams
• Strengthen faculty relationships and communications to enhance program impact

Coordinate & Engage Volunteers

• Recruit and manage volunteers for student-focused events
• Oversee event logistics and ensure successful volunteer participation

General Administration (Estimated 15% of role)