The Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University invites nominations and applications for a visionary, innovative, globally minded leader to serve as the inaugural Executive Director of the 100 Million Learners Global Initiative. Francis and Dionne Najafi provided a generous gift to launch one of the boldest and most ambitious global education initiatives in higher education history. Our vision is to transform global education and support global development by providing open-access, high quality programs, at no cost to the learner, which aim to remove barriers to quality education for some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities.

We now seek an Executive Director to grow what is in essence a startup INGO housed in a global business school. This is a singular opportunity to lead an ambitious effort to democratize access to high-quality business and leadership education, housed in one of the most unique higher education institutions in the world.

The Executive Director will lead the strategic growth and global positioning of the 100 Million Learners Initiative. They will build and execute a global resource mobilization and partnerships strategy, oversee cross-functional program execution with a diverse and international team, drive learner acquisition and engagement through digital platforms, and be an ambassador for the initiative, Arizona State, and democratizing higher education more broadly.

This role is for a visionary and pragmatic changemaker: someone who can lead global strategy, mobilize major funding, build powerful partnerships, and drive impact at scale. You’ll be the face and architect of one of the most ambitious education equity initiatives in the world. We welcome applications from experience leaders in global education, international development, and/or social innovation who are deeply committed to global equity, inclusive education, and scalable impact. A track record of delivering complex programs at scale and building partnership and funder ecosystems is essential.

This is more than a leadership role; it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of learning for millions.

The preferred location for this position is Phoenix, AZ. 

The selection committee will together review all candidates’ applications and agree on a longlist for the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to discuss the position with Perrett Laver in greater detail. The selection committee will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist to be invited to the formal interview stage.

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. For more information, please visit see our website for our Policy Manuals and Title IX Statement.

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