Role: Chief Executive Officer (Volunteer, Board of Directors)

Location: Remote, with occasional in-person meetings during the festival season

Term: Two Years from Appointment | Volunteer Position (No Compensation)

About Us

Silicon Valley PRIDE is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and our allies. It all started back in 1975 as a gay rights rally and evolved into the San Jose Pride Festival in 1976. The following year, 1977 San Jose added its first parade to the celebration. As a non-profit, we rely on volunteers and community partnerships to bring our mission to life. This year, we’re looking for a passionate and dynamic Chief Executive Officer to join our team and help us enhance the festival experience.

Mission Statement

To create safer spaces and advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to thrive through organizing and sponsoring year-round events and programming.

Position Overview

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is a key volunteer leadership role within Silicon Valley PRIDE. As the strategic and operational leader of the organization, the CEO will guide the overall vision, direction, and growth of the organization while ensuring mission alignment, operational excellence, and community impact. The CEO will work closely with the Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen organizational capacity, foster community engagement, and elevate the annual festival and year-round This is a key leadership role that requires creativity, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to our values.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Lead the development and execution of the organization's strategic plan, ensuring alignment with mission, values, and long-term sustainability. Provide visionary leadership to expand Silicon Valley PRIDE’s year-round presence, community programs, and festival offerings.
Identify opportunities for organizational growth, community partnerships, and mission-driven initiatives. Organizational Management
Oversee day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring effective implementation of programs, events, and administrative processes.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing culture among staff and volunteers.
Ensure operational policies, procedures, and organizational practices support efficiency, equity, and compliance. Board Collaboration & Governance
Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization's operations.
Support the Board in governance best practices, strategic decision-making, and organizational oversight.
Provide regular updates to the Board regarding organizational performance, potential risks, community impact, and upcoming opportunities. Financial Stewardship & Fundraising
Oversee the organization’s financial health, including budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation.
Partner with the Finance Committee to ensure compliance, sustainability, and transparent reporting.
Lead fundraising initiatives, cultivate donor relationships, and develop new revenue streams, including sponsorships and grants. Community Engagement & Partnerships
Represent Silicon Valley PRIDE as the primary spokesperson and ambassador in community, public, and media settings. Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, sponsors, and advocacy groups.
Ensure events, messaging, and initiatives authentically reflect and uplift the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Festival & Programming Oversight
Provide executive oversight for the annual Silicon Valley PRIDE Festival and all year-round events.
Support programming teams in delivering safe, inclusive, and impactful events. Ensure all festival operations align with organizational mission, community values, and accessibility standards..

Qualifications

Significant leadership experience in nonprofit management, organizational development, or a related field.
Experience working with a Board of Directors in a nonprofit or mission-driven environment.
Strong understanding of nonprofit governance, operations, and fundraising strategies. Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams, manage volunteers, and build community partnerships.
Excellent communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
Experience with strategic planning, organizational capacity-building, and community engagement.
Passion for LGBTQ+ rights, social justice, and community empowerment.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people and organizations.
Event or festival leadership experience is a plus but not required. Why Volunteer with Us?
Make an Impact: Play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and celebratory space for the LGBTQ+ community.
Build Relationships: Connect with diverse vendors, partners, and community members, expanding your professional and personal network.
Gain Experience: Build valuable skills in event management, vendor relations, and nonprofit operations while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Join a Passionate Team: Work alongside a dedicated and diverse team of volunteers who are committed to making the festival a success.

How to Apply

If you're excited about the opportunity to lead the vendor experience for Silicon Valley PRIDE and be part of a transformative 2SLGBTQ+ cultural event, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your resume and apply via https://linktr.ee/svpride For questions about the role, please contact info@svpride.com