Executive Director - The Golden Scoop University

About Us

The Golden Scoop University is the educational and capacity-building arm of The Golden Scoop—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering employees with all abilities through competitive employment within our two locations and throughout the Kansas City region. Our University program extends that mission through employee and employer education, professional development, and community engagement and partnerships, providing transformative learning opportunities for individuals and professionals alike.

Role Summary

As Executive Director, you will serve as the visionary and operational leader of Golden Scoop University. You will shape strategy, manage all aspects of the program, and serve as the public face and advocate of the institution. Your leadership will ensure the University’s long-term impact, financial sustainability, and alignment with The Golden Scoop’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and execute strategic plans that advance the University’s mission and growth through our two locations and throughout the Kansas City region.
• Collaborate with CEO as a member of the leadership team and the Board of Directors to set priorities and measure impact.

Program Design & Oversight

• Design and oversee educational and training programs for employees of The Golden Scoop, family members and external learners.
• Ensure curriculum promotes inclusion, skill development, and organizational values.
• Serve as the organization’s liaison with all employees as well as family members and caregivers, as needed.

Organizational Management

• Lead day-to-day operations of employee training and program management, including staffing, budgeting, policies, and facilities.
• Recruit, mentor, and manage a high-performing team.

Finance & Fundraising

• Develop and manage the University’s budget.
• Work collaboratively with the organization’s CEO and development team to cultivate strategic partners (i.e., school districts, non-profits, disability partners, etc.) as well as donors, partners, grants, and other funding sources to diversify revenue streams.

Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

• Serve as ambassador to the community, school districts, funders, partners, and media, as needed
• Forge collaborations that strengthen programs and visibility.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, MPA, M.Ed.) preferred.
• Proven leadership experience in special education, disability employment, nonprofit, higher education, or social enterprise environments.

Leadership Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong vision and mission alignment.
• Experience in program development, educational design, or training.
• Skilled in nonprofit operations and financial stewardship.

Fundraising & Partnerships

• Demonstrated track record of raising funds and managing relationships with donors and partners.

Communication & Advocacy

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to engage diverse audiences including learners, boards, donors, and the media.

Personal Traits

• Deep passion for inclusion, empowerment, and social impact.
• Collaborative, resilient, and adaptable in a dynamic nonprofit environment.
• Warm, relationship-driven approach paired with strategic acumen.

Why Join Us?

• Be instrumental in building an inclusive educational platform rooted in impact.
• Collaborate with a mission-driven team committed to empowering individuals with unique abilities.
• Opportunity for professional growth and transformational community influence.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter to human.resources@thegoldenscoop.org, explaining how your experience and vision align with our mission to empower uniquely abled people to find new purpose, reach new potential, and write their own life story.