Senior Director, International Programs

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

Job Title: Senior Director, International Programs & Development

Department: International Programs and Development

Reports to: Vice President, International Programs and Development

Salary Range: $75-$90k

Position Overview: 

The Senior Director, International Programs and Development works alongside and assists the Vice President, International Programs and Development in leading the strategic, operational, programmatic, and development efforts of the International Programs and Development (IPD) Department. This role provides leadership and oversight for international operations, program growth, compliance initiatives, and departmental planning to support the continued expansion and success of Best Buddies’ global network. 

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree and at least six years of progressive experience in both development and global operations efforts, or related experience
• Experience and knowledge of working with boards to establish fundraising efforts
• Willingness to travel to other countries to develop local fundraising opportunities in support of the International Programs Department
• Strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills, and ability to collaborate with individuals and teams in setting and achieving challenging goals
• Strong project management skills - including planning, analysis, decision-making, and problem solving - and willingness to multitask. 
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to mentor staff as well as participate in staff training 
• Strong project management skills - including planning, analysis, decision making, and problem solving - and willingness to multitask
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to mentor staff as well as participate in staff training. 
• Must be highly dependable, lead by example and be willing/able to adapt communication style to fit the situation and facilitate cross-departmental strategies
• Strong persuasive writing and presentation skills with the ability to exert influence, inspire others, and articulate the mission, goals, and activities of Best Buddies with passion and enthusiasm
• Ability to create, research, and implement new systems and ideas independently.
• Knowledge of industry trends, with particular awareness to relevant international issues
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, and database management systems 

Job Duties include, but are not limited to:

Programs

• Support international programs in achieving annual growth, quality, and mission impact goals. 
• Work with country directors and BBI staff to develop and implement programmatic management tools, reporting systems, and evaluation metrics. 
• Lead international country relationship management efforts and support team members in strengthening communication, responsiveness, and strategic engagement with country programs and leadership teams. 
• Mentor and support staff in addressing operational and programmatic challenges, identifying solutions, and advancing sustainable country growth and success
• Strengthen international participation and engagement in Leadership Conference and other global initiatives. 
• Support international expansion efforts, including onboarding of select new country programs.
• Serve as the primary resource for the International Programs and Development team by providing leadership, guidance, training, and troubleshooting support related to country operations, programmatic initiatives, development efforts, and organizational best practices.

Fund Development

• Collaborate closely with Director, International Development to support departmental development goals and initiatives.
• Support the development and execution of international fundraising and partnership strategies in collaboration with BBI development leadership, country directors, and local boards. 
• Lead planning and execution of the annual International Programs & Development Champion of the Year fundraiser. 
• Serve as the primary contact for select donor relationships, corporate partnerships, grants, sponsorships, and special development initiatives, as assigned. 
• Support country programs in building sustainable fundraising strategies and board engagement efforts. 
• Provide guidance and training to international staff and volunteer leaders regarding Signature Events best practices, including Friendship Walk and Champion of the Year.

Marketing

• Collaborate with BBI Marketing and Communications teams to support global storytelling, mission awareness, and public relations efforts. 

 Operations

• Provide leadership and oversight for the operational, administrative, and programmatic functions of the International Programs and Development Department. 
• Oversee development of annual Mission Impact Reports and other international reporting materials. 
• Provide regular reporting, analysis, and updates to senior leadership regarding international program performance and growth. 
• Assist the Vice President, International Programs and Development in leading and implementing the department’s strategic plan and annual priorities. 
• Develop, strengthen, and maintain international operational policies, procedures, and best practices aligned with Best Buddies International standards. 
• Ensure international programs operate in compliance with organizational, financial, legal, and programmatic requirements. 
• Collaborate cross-functionally with BBI departments to support organizational initiatives, international priorities, and operational improvements. 
• Support increased utilization of BBI systems, platforms, and tools across international programs.

Human Resources

• Supervise and support Programs department staff, including directly supervise the Deputy Director, International Jobs and Transitions and the Director, International Programs and Operations.
• Support the development and implementation of international staff training, onboarding, and professional development resources. 

Finance

• Support departmental budget planning, revenue forecasting, and expense management

Best Buddies® is an affirmative action employer, in addition to an EOE and M/F/V/PWD/PV employer. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Best Buddies International’s core values and help the organization continue to achieve its mission. Here at Best Buddies, our goal is to lead and advocate for a more inclusive world.

Best Buddies offers a comprehensive and generous benefits program that include financial security, health and wellness and time off.