Executive Director

Executive Director - Southeast Michigan Chapter

Organization: Prep and Me, Inc.

Location: Southeast Michigan (Detroit Metro Area)

Type: Full-Time | Exempt

Reports to: Board of Directors

Salary: Competitive, Commensurate with Experience - $110,000 -$125,000/ annually

About Prep and Me

PrepandMe is an expanding 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to creating educational equity for the most talented and hardest-working young minds in the country. We identify, mentor, and support high-achieving, hard-working high school students from underrepresented or underserved communities—specifically those with significant financial need. Through comprehensive academic support (8th-12th Grade), leadership training, standardized test prep, and extensive college counseling, we prepare our scholars to succeed in competitive academic environments, secure valuable scholarships, and thrive as future leaders with a mindset of appreciation and giving back.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the founding chief executive officer for the new Prep and Me Southeast Michigan Chapter. This critical leader is responsible for the overall launch, strategic direction, and operational effectiveness of the new chapter. The ED will work in close partnership with the national Board of Directors and leadership to fulfill the organization's mission, establish its presence in the Detroit Metro Area, and grow its impact by securing local funding and partnerships. We are specifically seeking a professional who possesses senior leadership experience and deep knowledge of the Southeast Michigan educational landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Chapter Launch

• Lead the development and implementation of the initial strategic goals and objectives for the new Southeast Michigan Chapter.
• Advance the organization's mission by establishing high-quality programming, securing crucial local partnerships, and deepening community engagement.

Development & Fundraising (Launch Priority)

• Lead and execute aggressive local fundraising efforts, including securing major gifts from individuals, writing grants tailored to Michigan foundations, establishing corporate partnerships, and managing launch events.
• Cultivate relationships with local donors, foundations, and community leaders to ensure the new chapter's financial sustainability and growth.

Program Oversight

• Ensure high-quality design, execution, and evaluation of all scholar programming and support services, adhering to Prep and Me's established national model (including advanced tutoring and dedicated college access advising).
• Oversee initial student recruitment, application processes, scholar tracking, and alumni engagement within the new service area.

Operations & Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual budget for the Southeast Michigan Chapter in partnership with the Board Treasurer.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable legal, regulatory, and reporting requirements for state and local non-profits.
• Oversee all chapter operations, including HR (hiring local staff/volunteers), technology, and data management.

Board & External Relations

• Serve as the primary liaison between the local staff/operations and the national Board of Directors.
• Represent Prep and Me in the Southeast Michigan community, at public events, with local media, and in partnerships with area schools and organizations.
• Advocate for issues related to educational equity, college access, and youth development across the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, master's degree in education, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit or education-focused organization.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor stewardship within the Southeast Michigan philanthropic community is a significant asset.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing organizational budgets.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
• Passionate commitment to educational equity, youth development, and scholar success, particularly in the unique context of the Detroit Metro Area.
• Ability to lead and inspire a team, work collaboratively, and manage multiple priorities inherent in a chapter launch.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with high-achieving students from diverse, low-income backgrounds.
• Knowledge of college admissions, scholarships, and enrichment programs.
• Grant writing and reporting expertise.
• Familiarity with CRM systems, student databases, and nonprofit compliance.

To Apply

Please send a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and vision for launching Prep and Me in Southeast Michigan, along with a resume, to Lakshmi Jayaram: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110, $125,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person