EXP- The Opportunity Engine

CANDIDATE PROFILE

CHIEF

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PRIMARY LOCATION

CARSON, CA

CREATED FOR

POSITION TITLE EXP

ABOUT EXP

our values

EXP – the Opportunity Engine helps young people gain experience, unlock doors and build the confidence they need to succeed in school, career and life Based in Carson, CA, a variety of experienced-based, career-focused programs such as internships, mentoring, industry coaching and professional boot camps are made available to over 8,200 high-school students in 13 EXP-supported schools and select OC Pathway schools With a team of 21 staff, over 400 volunteers, and an annual operating budget of $2 65m, EXP works to fulfill its vision of students growing up to be resilient, entrepreneurial, socially responsible adults, thriving and living their best lives

In January of 2023, CEO Amy Grat announced her well-planned and thoughtfully made decision to depart from the role After having taken over the organization from its founder Carol Rowen 13 years ago, Amy has led the organization through a period of steady growth - broadening its original mission, evolving programs, expanding the network of partners and building an outstanding team With her commitment to a smooth and successful leadership transition, the board and staff have embarked on an executive search for a new CEO to take the organization to its next level

"EXP supports us every step of the way with hands-on learning opportunities like job shadow field trips, the internship program, and the Fuel Your Future event. It is very rewarding to watch these young adults blossom in a business environment."

- Carol Shaw, lead teacher at Narbonne High School

Position Overview

Reporting to Board of Directors, the CEO of EXP is responsible for all aspects of administration and operations, as well as directing and implementing the overall strategy of the organization and its programs

Supported by a strong senior leadership team, the CEO serves as the lead spokesperson for the organization, leveraging relationships across public, private and educational institutions to promote EXP and its mission

With a high level of business acumen and exceptional team management skills, the CEO of EXP will steward the organization’s brand, grow its network, increase resources, and diversify funding sources to enhance performance and impact Qualified candidates will apply their leadership experience to scale and grow the organization, by effectively leading and implementing a strategic plan Other key duties include direct fundraising, marketing, and raising awareness for EXP

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is strategic and innovative, with a growth-mindset and proven track record of sustained expansion With exceptional leadership skills and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and justice, the CEO will inspire, motivate and support the team at all levels This person will lead with integrity and have a the strong ability to connect with stakeholders of all ages, backgrounds, industries and interests This person will be a skilled decision-maker, building on the organization's success and excellence, making improvements where possible

Ideally, the incoming CEO will have connections within the region, knowledge of workforce development programs, and experience working with youth

In order to achieve goals for EXP's expansion, the new CEO will design a timeline and benchmarks, building in accountability from the entire team

HISTORY & IMPACT

EXP began in 1999 as International Trade Education Programs, Inc (ITEP) We started in one school, Phineas Banning High School, in the Los Angeles harbor community of Wilmington, to help connect students to careers in maritime trade

Gradually, EXP expanded to more schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District that were seeking to restructure learning By embedding ourselves on campuses, we were able to fill the gaps between schools and industry, classroom curriculum and real-world learning so that students and educators could succeed

Today, EXP helps a broad array of schools and communities from large public-school districts to innovative charters and private schools make their vision for career-based learning a reality Our programs are made available to more than 8,200 students across 13 schools in five districts throughout greater Southern California

Programs

SEARCH TEAM

Envision Consulting has been retained by EXP to conduct the search for their incoming Chief Executive Officer

Click {link} to make recommendations or to be considered for the role

EXP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion or creed, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state or local law with respect to employment opportunities

Envision Consulting is a minority-owned firm specializing in executive search, organizational strategy, merger exploration, and executive leadership transitions With offices in Denver, New York and Los Angeles, our partners and consultants are former executive leaders within nonprofit organizations who are truly inspired by our collective power to lift up the communities we serve Our broad spectrum of services helps increase revenues, expand awareness and strengthen service delivery to the clients who need us the most

Learn more at www.envisionnonprofit.com

ALLISON FULLER MANAGING PARTNER