The Director of Education position takes an active leadership role in understanding the organization’s business objectives and building education strategies and plans to support the achievement of those objectives. This position is responsible for developing and directing the implementation of multiple partner associations/societies’ educational programs and deliverables, including the development of suitable program designs, specific learning objectives, active student learning styles and feedback methods. This position works closely with leadership, event, membership, education and publication staff to plan and execute relevant and desirable education programs that provide value to adult learners. The Director of Education understands that successful education programs create value, drive member engagement and support the overall health of the associations.
This is a great opportunity for a mid-career professional ready to move their career forward.
Assignment will include supporting associations/societies from this list (and potentially others as they are added):
Cereals and Grains Association
American Society of Brewing Chemists
American Phytopathological Society
Master Brewers Association of the Americas
Pink Boots Society
Int’l Society for Molecular Plant Microbe Interactions
Society of Sensory Professionals
This position reports to the VP of Operations.
PRIMARY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Responsible for analysis, development, and implementation of strategic directions of educational initiatives
Identify opportunities and gaps in our educational content and apply trends and innovations in adult learning in developing education to meet diverse customer needs delivery preferences and financial goals.
Use instructional design methodologies to create and develop learning programs and services, and to manage the delivery and content of the asynchronous eLearning products.
Identify and implement relevant, engaging content for eLearning, including webinars and videos that extend the shelf life of all content
Identify opportunities for cross-collaboration with existing programs and initiatives
Ensure that the societies activities are consistent with the organization's policies and priorities.
Drive the use of data to inform decision making and evaluate programs.
· Monitor, recommend, and implement emerging learning technologies and techniques
Collaborates with Marketing/communications team in producing appropriate marketing content for education program offerings
Collaborate with the Meetings team to ensure smooth execution of logistical aspects of delivery.
Design and deliver micro-credential programs, including the collection of content, the necessary learner study and assessment tools and certification requirements.
Work with volunteers on educational program development and delivery.
Responsible for employee development and performance management within the department. Supervise or directly handle hiring, training, development, and evaluation of staff in the Education department. Maintain an environment to support professional development and growth of employees to their fullest potential.
Work collaboratively with other senior team members as part of the annual planning and product development process to assess member needs, program viability, and development of successful business models to support educational and practice support goals
Work with the IT team to assess and implement a Learning Management System and direct its incorporation into the overall education program.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
B.A. in Instructional Design, Education, Instructional Systems Design, Communications, or related field required
Prior experience integrating adult learning principles into continuing education activities, demonstrating compliance with accreditation requirements and standards for continuing education
Experience with learning management system (LMS) platforms and developing online education courses
Prior experience supervising/training staff
Experience with budget development and management
Proficient in program and project management
Knowledgeable about various platforms, tablet/mobile devices, browsers and basic online design principles
Strong analytical and organizational skills and the flexibility to handle multiple tasks and deadline pressures
Strong interpersonal/communication skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint and Internet applications
Prior experience with Content Authoring Tools and video editing
Prior experience working with volunteers in a non-profit environment desirable
Experience in a professional non-profit association or member-driven organization; scientific focus preferred
About Scientific Societies
Scientific Societies is a non-profit, association management co-operative that offers full-service solutions for science-based professional societies. We currently serve as the headquarters and administrative offices of seven associations that are focused on advancing the science of their field worldwide, with members ranging from plant pathologists to brewing chemists and sensory professionals.
