Executive Director (Part Time)

SDAF is seeking a relationship-driven leader to oversee its day-to-day operations, working in close partnership with the Board of Directors, Executive Officers, and external contractors. There is no physical office - the role requires a local San Diego presence for events, sponsor meetings, and civic engagement, with all other work conducted remotely.

Fundraising and revenue development are central to the position. The Director will cultivate and strengthen relationships with donors, sponsors, grant bodies, and community partners, while also driving strategic planning, governance compliance, and organisational communications. The role is structured as an independent contractor (1099) engagement commencing January 2027, at approximately 80 hours per month.

• Lead financial stewardship and revenue development across donors, sponsors, grants, and partnerships, maintaining a clear development pipeline with the Board.
• Shape organisational strategy and governance alongside the Board and Executive Officers, ensuring compliance with bylaws and nonprofit best practices.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, building and improving systems and processes that support organisational effectiveness.
• Support Board committees in planning and executing signature programs and events, keeping work aligned with budget and capacity.
• Coordinate contractors and service providers, establishing clear expectations and accountability.
• Drive SDAF's communications, marketing, and public presence, serving as the public face of the organisation.

• 5+ years of nonprofit leadership experience in a role such as Executive Director, Development Director, or COO.
• Demonstrated fundraising track record, including personal cultivation of donors, sponsors, grants, or partnerships with measurable outcomes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent the organisation confidently across diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to build systems, improve processes, and exercise initiative without close supervision.
• Local presence in San Diego, with genuine interest in the built environment and the region's civic life.
• Comfortable working independently in a remote, contractor-based arrangement without a traditional office structure.

The San Diego Architectural Foundation (SDAF) is a nonprofit organisation with more than 40 years of presence in the San Diego architecture and design community. It supports programs and events that connect the public with the built environment and the civic conversations shaping the region's future.