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California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute

Vice President Programs & Research

California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute, Carson, California, us, 90749

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California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute (CABWCEI)

About the Organization

The California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute (CABWCEI) is a statewide, data-driven, action-focused nonprofit dedicated to improving the social, economic, political, and health outcomes of Black women and girls across California. Home to the California Black Women’s Think Tank and a robust portfolio of leadership development, workforce, research, and community initiatives, CABWCEI partners with academic institutions, policymakers, philanthropy, and community organizations to drive systemic change.

We are seeking a visionary, experienced, and mission-aligned Vice President of Research & Programs to lead and expand the Institute’s growing portfolio of research, programmatic initiatives, and statewide partnerships.

Position Summary

The

Vice President of Research & Programs

is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping, scaling, and overseeing CABWCEI’s research agenda, flagship programs, and cross‑sector partnerships. This leader will manage a high‑performing team, steward strategic relationships with universities and philanthropic partners, ensure program excellence, and drive innovation across the Institute.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, exceptional manager, skilled researcher, and relationship‑builder with demonstrated experience leading complex, multi‑site programs and community‑informed research initiatives. This role requires someone who is deeply committed to advancing equity and improving outcomes for Black women and girls.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Lead the strategic planning, development, and execution of CABWCEI’s research and programmatic agenda.

Partner with the President/CEO to identify growth opportunities, strengthen organizational impact, and align research, programming, and advocacy goals.

Represent CABWCEI in high‑level meetings with policymakers, funders, academic institutions, and community leaders.

Program Management & Expansion

Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of all CABWCEI programs, including:

SheWorks California

Holly J. Mitchell Girls Empowerment Leadership Institute

economic, civic engagement, and community‑based initiatives

Develop systems for program quality, performance, monitoring, and outcomes tracking.

Guide program staff to ensure strong recruitment, retention, curriculum development, and participant success.

Lead multi‑site program expansion across California.

Research Strategy & Execution

Direct the California Black Women’s Think Tank and research portfolio, including statewide reports such as the State of Black Women in California.

Build and manage research partnerships with universities, public agencies, and national research organizations.

Oversee research design, data collection, qualitative/quantitative analysis, and publication of findings.

Ensure all research aligns with CITI IRB standards, ethical protocols, and community‑informed models.

Translate research into actionable insights for policymakers, funders, and community partners.

Partnership Development & External Engagement

Cultivate and manage high‑impact partnerships with educational institutions, philanthropic organizations, corporations, and community groups.

Identify and secure strategic collaborations that advance research, expand programs, and increase statewide presence.

Serve as a public ambassador for CABWCEI through conferences, speaking engagements, and statewide coalitions.

Collaborate with the President/CEO and Development team to secure funding for research and programs through grants, contracts, sponsorships, and collaborative agreements.

Identify emerging funding opportunities in research, workforce, education, and equity spaces.

Support proposal development, budgets, scopes of work, and reporting.

Team Leadership & Organizational Growth

Supervise program managers, research associates, analysts, and cross‑functional project teams.

Build a culture of excellence, accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

Provide coaching, professional development, and performance management.

Help shape long‑term organizational infrastructure and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Required

10+ years of progressive experience in research, program leadership, or related fields.

Deep experience in public policy, research, evaluation, community‑based initiatives, or academic partnerships.

Strong leadership experience managing diverse teams and complex projects.

Proven success securing and managing partnerships with universities, funders, or government agencies.

Demonstrated commitment to racial equity, gender justice, and advancing outcomes for Black women and girls.

Exceptional communication, public speaking, and writing skills.

Preferred

Master’s degree or doctorate in public policy, sociology, public health, education, or related field.

Background in workforce development, youth development, leadership programs, or community advocacy.

Strong understanding of California’s policy landscape and equity ecosystem.

Experience in philanthropy, fundraising, or nonprofit management.

Salary Range − $89-99K

Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement contributions; unlimited paid time off; and professional development funds.

Full‑time Hybrid – two days in the office

How to Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples (research, policy, or program‑related) to ktodd@cablackwomenscollective.org with the subject line:

VP of Research & Programs – Application

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