Program Manager

PROGRAM MANAGER
Education Programs

American Architectural Foundation
Washington, DC

The American Architectural Foundation (AAF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Its mission is to educate individuals and communities about the power of architecture to transform lives and improve the places where we live, learn, work, and play. Through its Great Schools by Design initiative, AAF has had consistent success in promoting collaboration, excellence, and innovation in school design at the K-12 level. Recent work on STEM education has made a compelling case for extending programs into higher education. AAF seeks a Program Manager to support its current and developing initiatives.

Program Summary:
The American Architectural Foundation convenes national summits, topical forums, and school design institutes that introduce leaders and decision-makers to the principles and process of design. The education team plans and implements six to eight programs annually throughout the country. These programs feature a collaborative visionary work session, or charrette, as it is known in the architecture and planning fields. One to two and a half days in length, these programs of inspired exploration produce an outstanding body of innovative ideas. Content is captured in case studies, reports, videos, exhibitions, and new media.

Function of Position:
As part of this exciting team, the candidate will work under the supervision of the Director of Education to ensure high quality programs. The position interacts with all levels of professionals in design, education, and industry through written correspondence, telephone conferences, in-person meetings and programs. The successful candidate will possess knowledge and passion for a broad range of areas related to public education and its connection to community and urban life.
Key Duties and Responsibilities: Creates timelines and work plans for education programs and projects. Ensures that deadlines are met. Monitors budgets and expenses (see Responsibility for Resources section). Recruits and preps a team of volunteer design professionals to serve as resource team members for programs. Identifies new knowledge partners. Maintains database of volunteer resource team members (area of expertise, program participation, evaluation, etc.) Collaborates with AAF team to create program agendas and learning objectives. Plans and implements logistical arrangements for programs. Produces program briefing binders and sends to program participants. Drafts articles and case studies documenting program outcomes. Collaborates with AAF communications staff on web site updates and the dissemination of program products. Works with AAF development staff to identify new funding sources. Travels for program preparation and implementation as required (up to 20% out-of-town). Other duties as assigned.

Responsibility for Resources:
1. Position may be required to prepare and monitor project budgets.
2. Prepares expense forms ensuring proper coding and adherence to set budget.
3. Position is responsible for coordination of outside contractors such as writers and videographers as assigned.
4. On occasion this position may oversee interns or other volunteers.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) and a minimum of two to four years experience in planning programs for leaders/adult learners in coordination with outside context experts. Preference is given to those with a background in higher education and/or knowledge of the built environment. Must be proficient with Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, with preference given to those with Adobe Creative Suite proficiency.
Qualities, Skills & Knowledge: Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail Able to view issues/projects from multiple perspectives High energy, versatile and multi-task oriented Collaborative and creative Able to handle a high degree of accountability, meet timelines and see projects through to completion and on budget Exceptional writing and editing skills Exceptional listening skills
Compensation:
Salary is commensurate with experience. A generous benefits package is provided, including health and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and a transit subsidy.
Position status: Exempt, full-time employee, 37.5 hours/week.

Application Process:
Send cover letter, resume, salary history, and a writing sample to:
American Architectural Foundation
Education Programs
1799 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Or, to vgarvin@archfoundation.org with the subject line “Program Manager Search.”
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; however the final application deadline is April 30, 2010. As interviews may begin before this date, candidates are encouraged to apply early. If selected for interview, three (3) references will be requested. No phone calls please.