Executive director Jobs in Nashville, TN

Known for its legacy of social justice, advocacy and human rights intricately linked to Fisk’s mission of “earn merit through commitment to rigorous scholarship, cultural literacy, and high ethical standards,” Fisk University seeks a Director of the John Lewis Social Justice Center who demonstrates an understanding of the intrinsic connection between the profession of faith and acts of social justice aimed at realizing the vision of diversity, equity and inclusion. Following in the footsteps of iconic social activist leaders such as John Lewis, W.E.B. DuBois, Johnetta B. Cole and Diane Nash, the Director must have a strong understanding and praxis in the advocacy of social and racial justice issues, in addition to knowledge of issues related to healthcare, economics, peace, human rights, and globalization.

The Director of the John Lewis Center for Social Justice must possess strong leadership skills necessary to cultivate and strengthen the Center’s long-term vision, create innovative strategies, facilitate teamwork, and unite diverse constituencies around shared philosophies centered on social justice. The Director is the primary public face of the Center, the acting spokesperson for the Center to the media, state officials, the business community, and the public. As such this individual must possess excellent oral and written communication skills ensuring the Center has strong media presence.

The Director will oversee a robust portfolio of activities, including the Center’s affiliated courses, programs, and signature events. The Director serves as the first line of contact for visitors, vendors, consultants, faculty, and staff engaging in / with the Center. The Director also works collaboratively with the leadership and students at Fisk in advancing the Center’s mission.

• Proven “change agent” (leader) known for work related to social and community activism.
• Possesses exceptional community organizing skills to mobilize diverse communities to be involved in the Center’s initiatives on justice.
• Identifies and establishes strategic partnerships that can produce the greatest impact in dismantling systems that perpetuate racism, economic oppression, and environmental degradation.
• Possesses and utilizes their extensive network of contacts on the local, national, and global level in furthering (fulfilling) the mission (work) of the Center and reinforcing the value proposition of partnerships within local communities and beyond.
• Must garner external funding from foundations, organizations, corporations, state and federal agencies, to support the Center’s mission and develop relevant partnerships.
• Manage the Center’s budget.
• Responsible for ensuring public awareness of the work of the Center through strong media presence overseeing public relations for the Center to ensure the consistency and quality of the Center’s messaging and its presence and visibility in the community (i.e. website, news releases, newsletters, publications, etc.)
• Writes and posts blogs, Op-Eds, etc., in response to current events monthly.
• Creates and maintains an archive of activities, programs and events sponsored by the Center.
• Serves as the liaison between the Center, grassroots groups and community, and lead advocate for social and racial justice.
• Provides leadership in the execution of the strategic vision of the Center, including comprehensive planning and programming.

Education

Earned doctorate in area(s) related to social justice disciplines in the humanities, social or behavioral sciences, theology / divinity, or comparable professional skill set and experience.

Required Skills