Associate Director, Implementation and Improvement

Partners for Rural Impact

Associate Director supporting the strategic implementation and improvement of grants for rural student success. Engaging stakeholders and aligning efforts across departments and communities.

Posted 6/8/2026full-timeRemote • Kentucky • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Translate strategic priorities into actionable implementation plans
Design and manage implementation systems aligned to collaborative improvement practices, including planning cycles, progress monitoring, and feedback loops
Facilitate results-based planning processes, including defining outcomes, indicators, and strategies aligned to organizational goals
Monitor performance data and implementation fidelity, using insights to support continuous improvement and course correction
Partners with internal teams and external stakeholders to align efforts, remove barriers, and ensure coordinated execution
Establish and support implementation rhythms led by the Director of Collaborative Improvement (e.g., strategy reviews, progress check-ins, learning cycles)
Build capacity of staff and partners in strategy execution, continuous improvement, and data-informed decision-making
Identify risks to implementation and elevate insights and recommendations to the Director of Collaborative Improvement
Support the integration of evidence-based practices and continuous improvement methodologies across initiatives
Document progress, outcomes, and lessons learned to inform organizational learning and future strategy development
Maintain a professional relationship with students, families, and teachers, always operating in an ethical manner

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, education, organizational or related field required
Master’s degree in public administration, education, organizational leadership, or related field preferred
At least 5 years of experience in strategy implementation, program management, continuous improvement, or related work
At least 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience required
Demonstrated experience translating strategy into execution with measurable outcomes
Strong facilitation skills, including leading cross-functional groups and structured planning processes
Experience using data to inform decision-making and improve performance
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive insurance plans including medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
Flexible spending accounts, plus an employee assistance program.
Life and long-term disability insurance and retirement plan.
Generous paid time off work options including vacation, sick leave, and annual holidays, in addition to paid parental leave.
Tuition assistance and professional development for employees.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

strategy implementationprogram managementcontinuous improvementdata-informed decision-makingperformance monitoringrisk identificationevidence-based practicesplanning cyclesfeedback loopsoutcome definition

Soft Skills

facilitationleadershiprelationship-buildingcommunicationorganizational skillscollaborationcapacity buildingproblem-solvingadaptabilityethical operation

Certifications

Bachelor’s degreeMaster’s degree