Executive Director

Job Description: Executive Director
Organization Overview: The Urban Summit is a dynamic and community-based urban advocacy organization dedicated to achieving social and economic balance in Kansas City's African American communities. Our mission is to empower and uplift the African American population by addressing systemic challenges, advocating for equitable policies, and fostering community collaboration and engagement. We envision a future where all African Americans in Kansas City have access to equal opportunities, resources, and a thriving, inclusive environment.
Position Overview: Under the Direction of the Founder and Chair of the Urban Summit, the Executive Director is responsible for overseeing all administrative, management, and fiduciary activities for the organization.
Key Responsibilities and Duties: These duties reflect the Executive Director's role in maintaining effective communication, coordination, and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders. The Director's leadership in these areas will contribute to the Urban Summit's ability to drive meaningful change and achieve its mission of promoting social and economic parity in Kansas City's African American communities.

1. Weekly Summit Meetings:
   • In collaboration with the Urban Summit Executive Committee and Urban Council leaders, plan, coordinate, and execute the organization's weekly Summit meetings, which serve as a platform for community engagement, information sharing, and discussions on pertinent topics.
   • Identify, invite, and confirm speakers and moderators for each session, ensuring that discussions are relevant to the organization's mission and goals.
2. Community Coalition Building:
   • Engage in robust partnerships with neighborhood, community, and faith-based organizations, activists groups, and other racial equity and social justice allies to advance the Urban Summit’s mission and goals.
   • Develop, plan, and execute a voter education, voter engagement, and voter mobilization campaign which includes voter registration campaigns, community forums to educate and inform voters.
3. Monthly Cell Leader Meetings:
   • Hold monthly meetings with Cell leaders to provide guidance and support to ensure their activities align with the Summit’s annual goals and strategies.
   • Foster a collaborative environment where Cell leaders can share insights, challenges, and best practices to enhance their effectiveness.
4. Urban Council Collaboration:
   • Collaborate closely with the Urban Council to coordinate, execute, and follow up on Urban Summit/Urban Council direct action strategies and tactics.
   • Engage in regular communication with Urban Council members to provide timely updates on the progress of advocacy and direct-action initiatives.
5. Projects, Special Events, and Grant Management
   • In collaboration with the Executive Summit Executive Committee and Annual Summit Planning Committee, plan and coordinate the Urban Summit Annual Conference and Mini-Summits.
   • Ensure that the Urban Summit Annual Conference and Mini Summits are widely promoted.
   • Secure cash and in-kind support for the annual conference and mini summits.
   • Manage all grants and contracts to ensure goals are met and deliverables are achieved.
6. Progress Reports:
   • Prepare monthly progress reports as required by the Urban Summit/Council, grantors, and other stakeholders, providing insights into the impact of the Urban Summit's work.
7. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including community members, partner organizations, public officials, and donors.
   • Collaborate with stakeholders to identify areas of synergy, partnership opportunities, and avenues for collective impact.
8. Evaluation and Learning:
   • Continuously assess the effectiveness of Summit meetings, Cell activities, and advocacy strategies.
   • Incorporate feedback and lessons learned into future planning and decision-making processes.
9. Other Duties:
   • Perform all other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Urban Studies, Public Policy, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field. Advanced degrees preferred.
• Proven track record of successful program development, community engagement, and policy advocacy.
• Deep knowledge of the challenges faced by African American communities and a commitment to addressing racial disparities and promoting social and economic equity.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate staff and volunteers.
• Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, grant writing, and financial management.
• Familiarity with Kansas City's urban landscape and community dynamics is a plus.