Chief Program Officer (CPO)

The Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) is committed to enhancing student achievement in preparation for college and career success. Our mission for education is to serve as the catalyst for business, government and education to drive high student achievement that ensures a competitive future workforce for a world-class economy. For more information, please visit mbrt.org.

Classification: Exempt/Full-time

Location: MBRT’s headquarters office, Towson, MD. Statewide responsibilities require personal transportation and the ability to travel. Some flexibility for hybrid work.

Position Overview: This is a professional full-time, at-will position that is a key member of MBRT's leadership team, responsible for the strategic oversight and operational execution of MBRT programs. This role provides direct support and management of the MBRT statewide program team working with students, ensuring the effective delivery of programs that align with MBRT’s mission and strategic goals. The CPO plays a crucial role in cultivating and maintaining relationships with strategic partners, including state agencies, school districts and higher education institutions. The CPO leads the identification and securing of grants while ensuring compliance and reporting requirements. This role represents MBRT on statewide education and career committees and serves in the absence of the Executive Director.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Program Leadership:

• Provide oversight and lead responsibility for the development, implementation and evaluation of MBRT programs, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and strategic plan. 
• Ensure grant compliance and lead applicable grant reporting as required. 
• Oversee the program team ensuring consistent, high-quality delivery of program activities across all locations. 
• Partner with the Executive Director to identify new opportunities and maintain relationships with MBRT members who contribute income and resources. 
• Develop and apply best practices for program delivery, documentation and standardization, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across the organization. 
• Ensure ongoing programmatic excellence, identifying and applying for relevant grants (philanthropic, foundation, state, and federal) to support program growth and sustainability. 

 Program Team Development and Management:

• Attract, develop, coach and retain high-performing program team members. 
• Facilitate team training and meetings to ensure cohesive inter-team communication and organizational culture. 
• Support the professional growth of the program team, providing guidance on program development, funding and delivery. 

 External Relations and Partnerships:

• Represent MBRT on statewide education and career committees, advocating for the organization’s mission and programs as they serve students and workforce development. 
• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with external stakeholders, including funders, educational institutions and industry partners. 
• Expand MBRT's visibility and influence by participating in relevant conferences, forums, and public events. 

 Operational Collaboration:

• Serve as a collaborative and engaged member of the Executive Director’s management team. 
• Collaborate with the Chief Information and Operations Officer on programmatic planning and budgeting, ensuring alignment with grants and overall strategic goals. 
• Contribute to the development of organizational budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources. 
• Provide grant writing and reporting for programmatic grants and organizational reports. 
• Lead or actively participate in one-on-ones, management team and all-staff meetings, contributing to agenda building and execution.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in education, public administration, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred. 
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior management role, preferably within a nonprofit or educational organization. 
• Demonstrated experience in program and grant management, with a track record of successfully leading and scaling programs. 
• Strong grant writing and fundraising skills, with experience securing and managing multiple grants from various sources. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. 
• Strategic thinker with a passion for education and workforce development 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment with a statewide team, managing multiple priorities and deadlines. 
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and the ability to make decisions confidently. 

Position Requirement:

• Ability to work some evenings and weekends. 
• Statewide travel expected based on program and customer needs. 
• Background check required.

Reporting Structure: The CPO will report to the Executive Director. 

Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, with the expectation of working 37.5 hours/week. 

Wage Range: $131,000 - $165,000/yr. 

Benefits Summary: The MBRT offers a generous benefits package including short- and long-term disability, AD&D and life insurance. Eligible for health care including medical, dental, and vision coverage the first of the month following 30 days of employment. Paid leave including vacation, sick and holiday leave. A 401(k)-retirement plan with employer match available after one year of employment. Flexible spending account available.

Application Process: To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest in the Chief Program Officer position and relevant qualifications, or email the required documents to Sharon Markley Schreiber, Executive Director at sharon@mbrt.org. Position open until filled.

The Maryland Business Roundtable for Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by laws and regulations. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is rooted in our belief that diverse perspectives drive innovation.

We ensure all employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. Should you require accommodations during the application process, please inform us.