Executive Director - Society for Social Work and Research
Armstrong McGuire
Application
Details
Posted: 09-Apr-25
Location: Remote
Type: Full Time
Salary: Starts at $120,000+
Categories:
Executive Director/CEO
Salary Details:
The salary is commensurate with the requirements of the position and starts at $120,000+ annually. This position includes annual health stipend, 3% employer contribution to retirement plan, professional development, paid time off, and remote work support.
The Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR), founded in 1994, is the premier academic and professional society for social work researchers. SSWR supports social workers, scholars, and students committed to advancing social work research and evidence-based practice that informs policy and improves lives.
With over 1,800 members and a flagship Annual Conference that draws more than 2,000 attendees, SSWR provides a vibrant intellectual community and professional home for social work researchers. SSWR is entering a new chapter, investing in leadership and infrastructure to support its next stage of strategic growth.
The Opportunity
SSWR is seeking its first full-time Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization into a new era of professionalized management and strategic advancement. With a newly adopted strategic plan, strong financial stability, and an engaged Board of Directors, the next Executive Director will shape the organization’s future in collaboration with a newly hired Association Management firm.
The Executive Director is the chief executive of SSWR and reports to the Board of Directors. The ED leads strategy execution, fosters partnerships, oversees member programming, and ensures operational and financial integrity in collaboration with the Association Management firm. This person will also have the support of the Director of Membership and Conference Planning.
The position is fully remote, with travel to Washington, DC, and additional travel to the Annual Conference and other convenings.
This is an exciting opportunity for a mission-driven leader who is passionate about advancing social work research and who thrives in a dynamic, relationship-centered, and intellectually rigorous environment.
2024 – 2028 Strategic Priorities
Operational Excellence – Build internal systems and staffing to ensure continuity, innovation, and growth
Membership Growth & Engagement – Strengthen the pipeline of scholars and practitioners and broaden engagement opportunities.
Research Capacity Building – Support scholars at all career stages and promote diverse research methods and dissemination pathways.
Communication & Publication Enhancement – Increase visibility and impact of social work research.
Want to know more? Visit SSWR’s website at www.sswr.org.
Key Responsibilities
Provide visionary and collaborative leadership aligned with SSWR’s mission and strategic plan
Serve as a trusted partner to the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance and strategic alignment
Collaborate closely with the Association Management firm to oversee operations, finance, compliance, and membership support
Lead planning and execution of the Annual Conference in partnership with volunteers and professional staff
Represent SSWR externally and build relationships with funders, academic institutions, peer organizations, and global partners
Lead fundraising strategy and diversify revenue streams beyond the Annual Conference
The Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will bring a mix of strategic vision, relationship-building skills, and operational expertise to lead SSWR into its next chapter. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who possess the following qualities and experiences:
Leadership & Strategy
Demonstrated success in nonprofit leadership, association management, and/or academic/research-based organizations
Experience managing strategic growth, partnerships, and high-level collaboration with Boards and stakeholders
Professional Background
A graduate degree in social work or a related social science is preferred
Experience in social work or social science research is desirable but may be balanced with other executive competencies (e.g., association leadership, systems-building, fundraising)
Familiarity with the academic and professional landscape of social work is essential
Key Competencies
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Strategic and systems thinking and implementation
Financial acumen and stewardship of organizational resources
Proficient in the use and learning of technology for work in a global environment
Skilled in leading through change and managing complexity
Events management experience is highly valued
Application and Benefits
To apply, click on the link to the Executive Director position profile athttps://jobs.armstrongmcguire.com/jobs/executive-director-society-for-social-work-and-research-job-1443/. You will see instructions for uploading your compelling cover letter, resume, and salary requirements. Please provide all requested information to be considered. In case of any technical problems, contact talent@armstrongmcguire.com. No phone calls, please, and no applications will be accepted by email or directly from third-party posting sites.
Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The latest application for initial consideration is due May 2nd. While negotiable, the ideal start date is August 1, 2025.
The salary is commensurate with the requirements of the position and starts at $120,000+ annually. This position includes annual health stipend, 3% employer contribution to retirement plan, professional development, paid time off, and remote work support.
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination: SSWR is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. SSWR does not discriminate with regards to hiring, assignment, promotion, or other conditions of staff employment because of any status protected under local, state, or federal law.
About Armstrong McGuire
Armstrong McGuire is a leading executive search, fundraising and strategic advising firm that believes in unlocking the potential of nonprofit leaders and the communities they serve. Founded in 2004, our diverse team of advisors works with clients and leaders to align strategy, optimize operations, build capacity, and lead nationwide searches that bring supremely talented individuals to high-impact organizations.Learn more about our services in talent acquisition, fundraising counsel, and strategic planning. Armstrong McGuire
Since we opened our doors in 2004, we have remained rooted in our unwavering commitment to use our time and our talents to empower and uplift nonprofit leaders like you, and to equip your organizations for growth and impact. Through the years, we broadened our focus to increasing organizational capacity for our clients—bringing a comprehensive approach to leadership development, organizational planning, and resource development across the whole organization.
