Job Description

Job Title: Executive Director of Programs & People

Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (In-office and Remote)

Location: Detroit, MI

Travel: Required throughout Michigan as needed

About Us

The Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is the leading voice for Black entrepreneurship in Michigan. Our mission is to close the racial wealth gap by advocating for policies, creating programs, and building partnerships that lead to thriving, profitable Black-owned businesses. Through bold leadership, cultural rootedness, and intentional systems-building, we connect Black businesses to capital, resources, and opportunity.

The Mission of the Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is to help close the racial wealth gap by developing programs and advocating for policies that result in profitable and sustainable Black-owned businesses that are connected to public and private economic opportunities, while building trusted relationships.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Programs & People (EDPP) is the #2 leader at MBBA and serves as a key partner to the President & CEO in driving internal execution, managing staff, and delivering high-impact programs. This role will lead the day-to-day operations of the organization — ensuring our team is supported, our programs are effective and efficient, and our mission is fully realized through sustainable growth and measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities 

Organizational Leadership & Culture

• Serve as the internal leader responsible for translating vision into strategy and strategy into action.
• Foster a high-performing, mission-driven culture that values collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
• Lead performance management, staff development, and talent recruitment processes.

Program Oversight & Impact

• Oversee the development, execution, and evaluation of all MBBA programs, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and community needs.
• Work closely with program leads to monitor outcomes, manage budgets, and refine delivery models.
• Ensure continuous improvement and scaling of signature programs such as Capital Connect, Hospitality Success, BizWiz, and the UpNxt Youth Entrepreneurship program.

Operational Excellence

• Lead internal operations including HR, systems, and team workflows to ensure organizational effectiveness.
• Collaborate with the finance team to align program budgets with strategic goals and ensure compliance with grant and funder requirements.
• Develop and manage project plans, dashboards, and tools that keep the team on track and aligned.

Strategic Partnership & Executive Support

• Serve as a thought partner and right hand to the President & CEO on major initiatives.
• Represent MBBA in cross-sector collaborations, funder meetings, and partner initiatives when needed.
• Identify risks and opportunities and proactively propose solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• Required:
  • 7–10 years of experience in nonprofit, public, or entrepreneurial sectors, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role
  • Proven ability to lead high-functioning teams and manage complex programs and operations
  • Strong strategic thinking and execution skills
  • Experience managing budgets, grants, and compliance
  • Deep commitment to racial equity, economic justice, and supporting Black entrepreneurs
• Preferred:
  • Experience in Detroit or Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem
  • Familiarity with program evaluation and data-driven decision-making
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Background in talent management, HR, or organizational development a plus

Additional Assets:

• Local Market Knowledge: Familiarity with the Michigan’s business landscape

Compensation & Benefits

MBBA offers a competitive compensation package designed to support the well-being and growth of our team:

• Competitive Salary commensurate with experience.
• Mileage and Travel Reimbursement for work-related travel throughout Michigan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Retirement Savings Plan with organizational support to help you build long-term financial security.
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).
• 11 Paid, Nationally Recognized Holidays.
• A mission-driven workplace committed to equity, innovation, and lasting impact in the Black business community.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an inclusive environment where all individuals and businesses can thrive. MBBA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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