Senior Director for Adult Education

The Senior Director for Adult Education provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight of all adult education programs across the Boston metropolitan area. This role ensures that educational services meet high standards of quality, innovation, and accessibility while advancing the mission and values of Catholic Charities. The adult education programs encompass English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide training, and a range of other specialized courses designed to meet the diverse learning and workforce needs of adult students.

The Senior Director oversees program design, staffing, curriculum development, and outcomes measurement, ensuring regulatory compliance, fiscal responsibility, and continuous improvement. Partnering closely with the Program Vice President, this leader collaborates with internal departments and community stakeholders to promote pathways to college, career, and lifelong learning for adult learners.

• Working collaboratively with the Program Vice President, provide strategic leadership and oversight for all adult education programs, ensuring alignment with agency mission and strategic goals.
• Contribute to organizational planning and resource development, including supporting grant proposals, marketing efforts, and external partnerships.
• Lead and manage program operations, ensuring effective systems for enrollment, instruction, assessment, and career advancement.
• Develop and implement strategies to expand program reach, enhance student outcomes, and ensure fiscal sustainability.
• Oversee curriculum development and instructional quality to maintain compliance with funding and accreditation standards.
• Supervise and mentor program managers, instructors, and support staff, fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Facilitate staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities that promote innovation and best practices in adult learning.
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with educational institutions, workforce agencies, and community organizations to expand opportunities for adult learners.
• Lead the integration of adult education with other Catholic Charities divisions to support holistic, client-centered service delivery.
• Monitor trends, policies, and best practices in adult and workforce education to guide program improvement and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and contractual obligations, including data reporting, performance outcomes, and quality assurance standards.
• Collaborate with the finance department and Business Manager to develop, manage, and monitor program budgets, maintaining fiscal responsibility and efficiency.
• Collaborate with the Advancement and Government Affairs grant writers on new proposals and contract renewals to align with Catholic Charities strategic objectives.
• Evaluate program performance and staff effectiveness through data analysis, assessments, and feedback mechanisms, implementing continuous improvement plans.
• Utilize data and outcomes reporting to inform planning, secure funding, and communicate program impact to senior leadership.
• Serve as a visible ambassador of Catholic Charities in the education community, promoting equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
• Travel between Adult Education locations to provide in-person and virtual support to staff, and attend events representing Catholic Charities, including occasional evenings or weekends as needed.
• Regular travel between educational sites is required.

• Master’s degree in education, public administration, or a related field preferred; bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in adult education or related educational leadership role.
• At least 5 years of senior-level supervisory and management experience, with a demonstrated record of program growth and innovation.
• Deep understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design, and assessment strategies.
• Experience with data-driven program management, compliance, and grant-funded program operations.
• Proven ability to lead diverse teams, foster…