Application Guide

How to Apply for Executive Director

at Eastern PA Trans Equity Project

๐Ÿข About Eastern PA Trans Equity Project

Eastern PA Trans Equity Project (EPTEP) is a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to empowering transgender individuals through direct support, advocacy, and community-building. By joining EPTEP, you'll be part of a mission-driven team making a tangible difference in the lives of trans people across Pennsylvania, with a focus on peer-led programs and sustainable growth.

About This Role

As the Executive Director, you will lead EPTEP's strategic and operational direction, ensuring financial sustainability while overseeing day-to-day operations. This role is pivotal in expanding the organization's impact, from supporting peer-led programs to advocating for trans rights, and requires a hands-on leader who can balance vision with execution.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with staff and board members to discuss strategy and program updates, followed by outreach to donors or grant writing. You might also spend time traveling to community events or partner organizations in Eastern/Central PA, and in the evenings, you could attend advocacy meetings or support groups to stay connected with the community.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Eastern PA Trans Equity Project Is Looking For

  • Proven leadership experience in a nonprofit, preferably with a focus on LGBTQ+ or trans issues, with a track record of developing and executing strategic plans.
  • Strong financial acumen, including experience with budgeting, fundraising, and grant management to ensure organizational sustainability.
  • Excellent interpersonal and community-building skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders including board members, volunteers, and community partners.
  • Ability to work remotely and travel regularly across Eastern/Central PA, with flexibility for evening and weekend commitments.

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Eastern PA Trans Equity Project

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific achievements in nonprofit leadership, especially any experience with trans or LGBTQ+ advocacy, and quantify your impact (e.g., funds raised, programs launched).

2

In your cover letter, share a personal connection to the missionโ€”whether through lived experience, volunteer work, or community involvementโ€”to demonstrate authentic passion.

3

Research EPTEP's current programs (peer support, financial assistance, legal name change, workforce development) and mention how you'd enhance or expand them based on your experience.

4

Address the remote aspect: explain your experience managing remote teams and your strategy for staying connected with staff and community across Pennsylvania.

5

Given the travel requirement, mention your familiarity with Eastern/Central PA and your willingness to be on the ground regularly.

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with EPTEP's values of empowerment, collaboration, and community-centered work.", "Highlight your experience in nonprofit financial management and fundraising, showing you can ensure the organization's sustainability.", 'Demonstrate your understanding of the unique challenges faced by trans individuals in PA and how your leadership can address them.', 'Showcase your ability to build and nurture relationships with board members, staff, and community partners.']

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Review EPTEP's website and social media to understand their current programs, recent achievements, and community engagement.
  • โ†’ Look into their funding sources, partnerships, and any recent news or press releases to gauge their financial health and priorities.
  • โ†’ Research the landscape of trans advocacy in Pennsylvania, including key issues and other organizations, to position yourself as informed.
  • โ†’ Check if EPTEP has a strategic plan or annual report publicly available, and study it to understand their goals and challenges.
Visit Eastern PA Trans Equity Project's Website โ†’

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach developing a long-term strategic plan for EPTEP, given its current stage of growth?
2 Describe a time you successfully led a fundraising campaign or diversified funding sources. What was your strategy?
3 How do you plan to maintain a strong organizational culture and team cohesion in a remote work environment?
4 What experience do you have with advocacy or policy work related to transgender rights, and how would you advance EPTEP's advocacy goals?
5 How would you balance the need for direct services with the need for organizational growth and sustainability?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letterโ€”make it clear you've researched EPTEP and understand their specific mission and programs.
  • Avoid overlooking the remote travel requirement; if you're not willing to travel regularly, don't apply, and if you are, emphasize your readiness.
  • Don't neglect to address your fundraising experience; for an ED role, financial sustainability is key, so highlight your successes.

๐Ÿ“… Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Eastern PA Trans Equity Project!