US Chess is Hiring Director of Programs

US Chess solidifies its commitment to support initiatives for underrepresented communities by hiring a Program Director to oversee its Women’s, At-Risk, and Older Adult programs. This is a new position that also will support strengthening these programs through scholastic chess and other activities, and advancing the US Chess mission to empower people, enrich lives and enhance communities in chess. 

The position is Full Time, 40 hours/week (exempt) and based in St. Louis, Missouri (remote possible). 

Position Overview

The Director of Programs will advance the US Chess mission to empower people, enrich lives and enhance communities through chess. The Director of Programs will carry out initiatives to support underrepresented communities in chess including but not limited to Women, Underserved Youth, Older Adults, and other communities as identified. Given the youth-centric nature of US Chess membership, this role also will support Scholastic Chess.
 

Essential Job Functions

• The Director of Programs will strategically engage with local and national organizations to provide support for improving representation from underserved communities in US Chess. The Director will also support US Chess national events with outreach for underserved communities.
• Design program initiatives to support US Chess mission.
• Manage programs to ensure they are on-budget and on-time. Regularly communicate program statuses to Executive Director.
• Measure and evaluate programs to understand impact on target communities. Analyze data and information to improve program initiatives around growing membership, improving retention among underserved communities, identifying new communities, and enhancing satisfaction with US Chess programs.
• Work with the Development Director to drive fundraising initiatives related to the programs’ portfolio and advance intersecting initiatives whenever possible in support of the US Chess mission.
• Work as staff liaison in support of US Chess program committees.
• Oversee and manage budgeted funds for program initiatives.
• Manage Program Coordinator.
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree, with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in directing or managing nonprofit programs.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with experience in public speaking, content development and program design.
• Skilled in outreach to various communities with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in MS Office and comfortable with various technologies used to support program management.
• Knowledge and experience with DEI practices.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Effective collaborator willing to work across US Chess departments, with members and external organizations.
• Fundraising experience in a primary or supporting role.
• Flexibility to work on some weekends and nights. Some travel required (20%), including 5 US Chess national events annually.
• Knowledge of the chess community helpful. 

This role is based out of the US Chess St. Louis headquarters, with remote work being possible for an exceptional candidate. US Chess offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Please send cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references (with contact information) to Click here to show email address. Primary consideration given to complete application packages received by October 10, 2023.