Job Opportunities

Organization Overview

France Education Northwest (FEN) is a Washington-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2008 by leaders of the French-American community in the Pacific Northwest. FEN's mission is to promote French culture, education, and cross-cultural understanding, particularly among youth, through educational, cultural, and community programs. Key initiatives include Seattle's French Fest, culinary and cultural events, and French internship programs in partnership with leading French universities and Grandes Écoles.

As the educational and cultural affiliate of the French-American Chamber of Commerce Pacific Northwest (FACC-PNW), FEN serves as an important bridge between the French-speaking world and communities throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Position Summary

The President serves as the principal volunteer leader of France Education Northwest and is responsible for providing strategic leadership, governance oversight, and public representation of the organization. The President works closely with the Board of Directors, FACC-PNW leadership, volunteers, interns, donors, sponsors, educational partners, and community stakeholders to advance FEN's mission and ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of the organization.

In accordance with the Bylaws of France Education Northwest, the President presides over meetings of the Board of Directors, ensures the Board is informed of significant organizational matters, serves as a principal spokesperson for the organization, and performs such additional duties as may be assigned by the Board.

Key Responsibilities

Board Governance and Leadership

• Preside over meetings of the Board of Directors.
• Foster effective governance practices and ensure Board engagement.
• Work collaboratively with the Board and officers to define and monitor organizational priorities.
• Ensure the Board receives timely information regarding significant organizational, financial, operational, and strategic matters.
• Support Board recruitment, succession planning, and leadership development.
• Promote compliance with FEN's bylaws, policies, nonprofit regulations, and ethical standards.

Strategic Planning

• Lead the development and execution of FEN's strategic vision.
• Identify opportunities to expand FEN's educational and cultural impact throughout the Pacific Northwest.
• Promote innovation while preserving the organization's mission, values, and French cultural heritage.
• Establish measurable goals and evaluate organizational performance and outcomes.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

• Serve as the principal ambassador and spokesperson of FEN.
• Represent the organization at community, educational, business, cultural, and diplomatic events.
• Build relationships with French, Francophone, and American institutions.
• Strengthen partnerships with schools, cultural organizations, government representatives, foundations, and community leaders.
• Promote awareness of French language, culture, education, and international exchange opportunities.

Fundraising and Development

• Champion fundraising efforts and cultivate donor relationships.
• Support grant-seeking initiatives, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships.
• Engage community supporters in advancing FEN's mission.
• Assist in identifying and securing financial resources necessary to sustain and expand programs.

Program Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight for major FEN initiatives, including:
  • Seattle's French Fest
  • French Internship Programs
  • Culinary and cultural events
  • New educational and cultural initiatives
• Monitor program effectiveness and alignment with organizational objectives.
• Encourage volunteer participation and community engagement.

Partnership with FACC-PNW

• Maintain a strong working relationship with the French-American Chamber of Commerce Pacific Northwest, FEN's sole corporate member under the bylaws.
• Collaborate with FACC-PNW leadership to leverage synergies between cultural, educational, and business initiatives.
• Support the development of programs that strengthen French-American connections across the region.

Financial Stewardship

• Work with the Treasurer and Board to ensure sound financial management.
• Participate in annual budget planning and review.
• Monitor financial sustainability, resource allocation, and risk management.
• Promote transparency and accountability in financial reporting and organizational operations.

Qualifications

Required

• Passion for French culture, education, and international engagement.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit, educational, cultural, business, or community organizations.
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders and inspire volunteers.
• Strategic thinking and organizational leadership capabilities.
• Commitment to FEN's mission and values.

Preferred

• Experience serving on nonprofit boards.
• Familiarity with fundraising, sponsorship development, and donor engagement.
• Connections within French-American, Francophone, educational, cultural, or business communities.
• Fluency in French and English.
• Experience working with international organizations, educational institutions, or cultural programs.

Core Competencies

• Visionary Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Governance and Board Development
• Community Engagement
• Fundraising and Partnership Development
• Cultural Diplomacy
• Financial Stewardship
• Public Speaking and Advocacy
• Consensus Building
• Volunteer Leadership

Time Commitment

The President is expected to:

• Attend and chair regular Board meetings.
• Participate in committee and strategic planning meetings as needed.
• Represent FEN at major events and community functions.
• Provide ongoing leadership and guidance between Board meetings.

Estimated commitment: 5-10 hours per month, with additional time required during major fundraising campaigns, Seattle's French Fest, and special events.

Term of Service

The President is appointed by the Board of Directors and serves at the pleasure of the Board in accordance with the Bylaws of France Education Northwest. The term, renewal process, and officer succession are governed by Board action and applicable bylaws.

Leadership Statement

The President of France Education Northwest champions the organization's mission to educate, inspire, and connect communities through French culture and educational exchange. By fostering strong governance, sustainable growth, and meaningful partnerships, the President helps ensure that FEN continues to enrich the cultural fabric of the Pacific Northwest for future generations.

FEN President nominations and applications shall include an updated Resume and be provided to the Board of Directors no later than October 1st.

Apply Now!