Executive Director

Overview:

The Fairfax Education Association (FEA) seeks a visionary and results-driven Executive Director to lead and manage the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of one of Virginia's most impactful education associations. The Executive Director will advocate for public education, foster member engagement, and support the collective bargaining process for over 27,500 educators and support professionals in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). This role demands a dynamic leader with a proven track record in labor advocacy, organizational leadership, and fostering collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the Union’s strategic goals in alignment with its mission to advocate for educators and public education.
• Lead efforts to maintain and build upon the Union’s first collective bargaining agreement, ensuring continuous improvements in compensation, working conditions, and professional respect for educators.
• Work with member leaders and VEA staff to facilitate trainings on collective bargaining rights at worksites.
• Provide vision and leadership to strengthen FEA’s presence as a leader in education advocacy at the local, state, and national levels.

Advocacy and Member Engagement

• Develop and implement a membership recruitment and retention plan that is inclusive of all members, including all educators regardless of their job category, race, ethnicity, nationality, native language spoken, gender, and religion.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of FEA members with district leadership, government officials, and other key stakeholders.
• Foster strong relationships with union members, building capacity, empowering members to lead in advocacy, and engage in collective action and organizational initiatives.
• Ensure the effective implementation and defense of critical contract policies. Organizational Management
• Oversee daily operations of the Union, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and efficient allocation of resources.
• Manage and develop staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Ensure sound fiscal management, including budget development and oversight.
• Foster collaborative relationships with National, State, Local, and Peer affiliates, and partner organizations.

Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining

• Lead bargaining efforts in collaboration with the lead negotiator and bargaining team.
• Serve as a primary representative in negotiations with FCPS to ensure equitable contracts for members.
• Maintain and enforce contract provisions, ensuring compliance and advocating for improvements.

Communications and Public Relations

• Function as a spokesperson for the FEA, promoting the organization’s mission and accomplishments to the public, media, and community stakeholders.
• Develop and implement communication strategies to engage members and elevate FEA’s advocacy efforts. Professional Learning and Inclusion
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within FEA and FCPS.
• Support professional learning and development opportunities for members and staff to foster growth and leadership.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in education, labor relations, public administration, or related field preferred.
• Proven leadership experience in a labor union, educational association, or advocacy organization.
• Strong understanding and proven record of collective bargaining, enforcement of labor laws, and contract negotiation.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in education and the workplace.
• Demonstrated commitment to uplifting the voices of traditionally marginalized populations.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across diverse communities.
• Fiscal management experience, including budget development and oversight.
• Passion for public education and the advancement of educator rights.

Preferred Experience:

• Successful leadership in negotiating and enforcing collective bargaining agreements.
• Familiarity with educational policies and structures within Fairfax County or similar large school districts.
• Leadership experience in labor unions, education, and/or with policy advocacy.
• Lifelong learner with the proven ability to mentor, support, and inspire staff and members.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and professional development support.

Please click here to apply.