Job Description

Job Description and Duties

The Executive Director leads the HOPE Program by providing policy, programmatic, and technical guidance to the Hope Act Board while overseeing all administration, operations, and strategic direction. This role shapes the program’s vision and drives both short- and long-term goals to advance HOPE’s mission of economic opportunity and equity. The Executive Director advises the Board on policy and operational decisions, prepares essential analysis and recommendations, and ensures the program meets all statutory and regulatory requirements. They manage daily operations, including eligibility processes, trust account administration, and overall program performance, while also overseeing all program-related contracts and ensuring each partnership supports statewide implementation. The Executive Director leads the onboarding and oversight of the Program Administrator and maintains strong communication with the Board, STO leadership, partners, and stakeholders to support coordinated governance and effective program delivery across California.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.

Electronic applications are encouraged. If submitting a hard copy, please include  JC-501187 / Position #824-001-0669-001in the "Examination(s) or Job Title(s) for which you are applying" section of the application. Hard copy applications received without the required information may not be considered.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable short- and long-term plans
• Proven leadership experience overseeing complex programs, daily operations, and staff or contracted administrators
• Strong ability to advise and support a governing board with clear analysis, materials, and policy recommendations
• Demonstrated knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements, with experience ensuring compliance and meeting reporting obligations
• Skilled in managing, negotiating, and monitoring contracts with vendors, partners, and consultants
• Exceptional communication skills for engaging Board members, executives, legislators, partners, and community stakeholders
• Experience developing and managing budgets, forecasting needs, and ensuring fiscal accountability and sustainability
• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to interpret program data, performance metrics, and research to drive improvements
• Skilled in navigating government processes, including legislative, budgetary, and administrative procedures

Benefits

Please see the  CalHR Benefits Summary page for detailed information.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Other - Cover Letter
• Statement of Qualifications -

  Please submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is a narrative that describes how your education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify you for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing and should be no longer than two pages using no smaller than 11 point size font. Resumes do not take the place of the SOQ. Applications received without an SOQ will not be considered for interview.

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