Interim Executive Director
Call for Applications: Interim Executive Director
Location: New York, NY or Remote, with occasional travel required
Deadline for applications: June 2, 2023 before 5:00pm Eastern time. We will be reviewing applications starting May 15 on a rolling basis.
The Calyx Institute is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) whose mission is to educate the public about privacy in digital communications and to develop tools that anyone can use to build "privacy by design" into their internet access. By developing encryption and anonymity tools that can help users maintain their privacy, we hope to make online security easier and more accessible for everyone online.
The Calyx Institute is a technology non-profit with the mission of developing, testing and distributing free privacy software, as well as finding new and innovative ways to defend online privacy, security and accessibility. Member supported, Calyx develops cutting-edge Internet privacy services, such as CalyxOS, and membership supported internet hotspot program.
The Calyx Institute has grown rapidly over the past 4 years, and now enjoys strong revenue and a very sustainable program revenue model.
As we move into the next phase of the organizations growth, the organization and board are reimagining how leadership can best support and enable Calyx's ultimate impact. The founding Executive Director will be moving into a newly-created role, enabling him to focus primarily on external advocacy, community engagement, creative vision, technology and fundraising.
The Calyx Institute is seeking an experienced Interim Executive Director to facilitate this transition and to serve as a bridge to our future leadership structure. The Interim Executive Director will have an active role in that planning process, and will have the option of applying for the permanent Executive Director position.
This role is an opportunity for a motivated candidate to help Calyx more broadly deliver on our mission and vision by improving and optimizing our overall management, operations, programs and service delivery. If you bring a a passionate, entrepreneurial spirit to the work you do, and are excited to help defend privacy online, we encourage you to apply for this position.
We are happy to consider qualified remote applicants based in the US time zones, and preference will be given to candidates located in US northeast. We are seeking a highly motivated and organized person who embraces new challenges, works hard yet considers fun a core workplace value, and embraces Calyx's mission.
Roles and responsibilities
The Interim Executive Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Calyx's finances, operations and programmatic activities. Duties will include:
- Working to center DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging) analysis and strategy in all aspects of Calyx's work and strategy
- Working with the Calyx bookkeeper to ensure proper accounting, reporting and compliance
- Working with Operations Director to oversee Human Resources, contracting, policy development
- Working with Director of Memberships to enable ongoing delivery of all members services and benefits, and growth to our overall membership base
- Working with the Director of Engineering to ensure that Engineering is able to effectively support Calyx's programmatic and mission objectives
- Developing policies and ensuring their execution to ensure the organization operates effectively
- Working with the board, President, program directors and staff to ensure Calyx programs and activities are fulfilling the mission of the organization
In addition to the day-to-day management oversight, the Interim Executive Director will work with the Calyx Board to review the overall state of the organization, assessing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats as the organization maps out plans and priorities for our next phase of growth.
Skills and Experience required
The ideal candidate will possess:
-
At least 5 years of nonprofit leadership experience
- Strong interpersonal communications skills and passion for leadership accountability to staff
- Ability to establish and maintain the conditions for success at all levels within the organization. That includes a focus on developing policies to ensure the organization operates effectively while achieving a positive working culture.
- Rich understanding and substantial experience in DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging) work, and a commitment to centering DEIB priorities in all aspects of Calyx's work and strategy
- Proven leadership track record, able to tap into the knowledge and experience of the board and staff while also charting an organizational vision for long term strategy and growth.
- Financial leadership, understanding the full range of internal business operations and external financial landscape
- Passion for ensuring compliance oversight in collaboration with other organization leaders
- Deep knowledge of HR best practices, including hiring, setting compensation and benefits policies
- Strong public-facing communications and community relations skills
- Advocate for human rights defenders, journalists, activists, open source, and internet privacy privacy.
Other Details
This position is for an exempt full-time employee, based on a 40 hour workweek, at 170,000 - 190,000 per year, depending on experience.
The Calyx Institute has a competitive benefits package, including a generous PTO policy, employer paid health insurance, vision, dental coverage.
The Calyx Institute is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, the Calyx Institute is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.
The Calyx Institute is actively building a team that represents people from all over the world, people of color, people with disabilities, women, LGBTQ individuals, and members of other historically disadvantaged groups are especially encouraged to apply.
To be considered for this position, you must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis, without sponsorship.
To Apply
Please send a detailed résumé and cover letter in PDF format to edsearch@calyxinstitute.org
Deadline for applications: June 2, 2023 before 5:00pm Eastern time. We will be reviewing applications starting May 15 on a rolling basis.
In your letter, please address the following:
- What draws you to working at Calyx?
- What specifically draws you to the position?
- What relevant skills do you have that align with our requirements? Please be specific about your experience managing or supporting fiscal sponsorship agreements.
- Why do you think you would excel in this position?