Managing Director

Company Description

Montessori Northwest (MNW), established in 1979, provides Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)-accredited Montessori teacher training for multiple age levels: birth to age 3 (Assistants to Infancy), ages 3 to 6 (Primary), and ages 6 to 12 (Elementary) across three states. MNW is a non-profit organization and a vibrant hub for Montessori professionals, offering adult education, community outreach, and customized staff development. Guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, MNW operates in partnership with Whitworth University. All programs are fully accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role based in the Portland, Oregon. The Managing Director will oversee the organization’s day-to-day operations, including strategic planning, program management, budget oversight, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. The role involves leading initiatives to expand MNW’s impact, building partnerships with key stakeholders, and ensuring adherence to the organization’s mission and values. The Managing Director will also work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community to drive organizational success, maintain compliance standards, and foster growth.

Qualifications:

Required

• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit leadership or executive management, with a track record of organizational stewardship
• Hands-on budget development and financial management experience, including oversight of payroll, reporting, and compliance
• Experience managing small, mission-driven teams with an emphasis on clarity of roles and collaborative culture
• Strong external communications and public representation skills; comfortable serving as an organizational spokesperson
• Familiarity with AMI/MACTE accreditation processes, or demonstrated ability to quickly develop expertise in specialized regulatory environments
• Experience leading or contributing to strategic planning processes
• A Bachelor’s degree

Preferred

• Familiarity with Montessori philosophy, pedagogy, or the Montessori school/training center world
• Experience working within AMI or AMS-affiliated organizations
• Background in adult education, teacher training, or professional development programs
• Established relationships within the AMI community or broader Montessori professional networks
• A Master’s degree or a PhD