Executive Director

Executive Director, Education Writers Association

Chaloner, a national search firm, has partnered with the Education Writers Association on its search for an Executive Director.

The Education Writers Association (EWA), the nation’s premier professional organization advancing high-quality education journalism, invites applications and nominations for the position of Executive Director. EWA seeks an experienced leader who is passionate about bolstering education journalism, has a track record of building meaningful external relationships and representing an organization with infectious enthusiasm, credibility and clarity. EWA is poised to build on our history of strong programming and support of our robust membership as we enter a new phase of growth and evolution at this pivotal moment.

For nearly 80 years, EWA has supported a broad community of journalists and communications professionals with the goal of improving the quality and depth of education coverage. Today, the nonprofit serves some 1,600 members through virtual and in-person professional development — including its flagship National Seminar — along with robust online resources, individualized support for journalists, reporting fellowships, and awards recognizing excellence in the field.

EWA’s next Executive Director will be strategic in building on this strong foundation while articulating and guiding a clear vision for the organization’s future.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, EWA’s Executive Director serves as a visible and effective leader in the education journalism and communications landscape, acting as the nonprofit’s primary representative to members, donors, partners, and other key stakeholders. In a rapidly evolving media environment, the Executive Director leads a team of 13 and stewards EWA’s people, programs, and financial resources to ensure the organization’s continued relevance, impact, and long-term sustainability.

This is a pivotal moment for EWA. The organization seeks a dynamic leader and systems thinker with the ability to drive donor and earned revenue, energize staff, and elevate our public profile. The incoming Executive Director inherits a hardworking, conscientious team and a legacy organization with tremendous potential for growth.

• In close collaboration with EWA’s director of development, build and sustain strong relationships with philanthropic partners and funders to secure financial support for the organization
• Bring existing funder relationships to the role and actively develop new ones to sustain EWA’s impact and direction
• Develop a dynamic fundraising strategy with metrics that demonstrate the organization’s accountability and effectiveness in advancing education journalism
• Own revenue targets and develop strategies to meet and exceed them, identifying new revenue streams beyond traditional funding models
• Serve as a visible, credible champion for EWA’s mission in funder conversations and public forums

• Translate EWA’s strategy into detailed, actionable operational plans in partnership with staff
• Ensure all programs and initiatives align directly with our core mission
• Serve as the primary external spokesperson, thought leader, and public advocate — representing EWA at national events, speaking on panels, and taking public positions in support of education journalism and democracy, among other activities
• Ensure EWA’s programming is dynamic, nimble, and responsive to the rapidly changing education and media landscape

• Build a cohesive organizational culture grounded in transparency, collaboration, mutual respect, and accountability
• Be a visible, present leader who engages authentically with staff and fosters genuine connection and community within the team
• Recognize and invest in the development of talented staff, as well as being able to delegate and build up leadership skills
• Serve as the primary conduit between the board and staff, providing regular updates and fostering an environment of shared vision and trust

• Develop and deepen…